Opinion | The Guardianhttps://www.theguardian.com/us/commentisfree
Latest opinion, analysis and discussion from the Guardian. CP Scott: "Comment is free, but facts are sacred"en-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2016Fri, 09 Dec 2016 16:59:07 GMT2016-12-09T16:59:07Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2016The Guardianhttps://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttps://www.theguardian.com
Kellyanne Conway and liberal feminists: two sides of the same coin | Arwa Mahdaihttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/kellyanne-conway-liberal-feminism-shortfalls-politics-amy-schumer-lena-dunham
<p>The Lena Dunham and Amy Schumer kind of ‘female empowerment’ is just as flawed as its rightwing version. Both sidestep politics time and time again</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/15/feminists-election-misunderstood-women-voters">Feminists misunderstood the presidential election from day one | Liza Featherstone</a> </p><p>There is no better example of modern feminism in action than Kellyanne Conway. Sure, she may have <a href="http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2016/12/07/kellyanne_conway_suggests_that_mothers_should_not_take_jobs_in_the_white.html">recently suggested</a> that mothers shouldn’t take jobs in the White House, but those are just words. Look at her actions; look at her life! </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/kellyanne-conway-liberal-feminism-shortfalls-politics-amy-schumer-lena-dunham">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationFeminismWomenWorld newsUS newsFri, 09 Dec 2016 12:00:28 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/kellyanne-conway-liberal-feminism-shortfalls-politics-amy-schumer-lena-dunhamPhotograph: BEHAR ANTHONY/ POOL/EPAPhotograph: BEHAR ANTHONY/ POOL/EPAArwa Mahdawi2016-12-09T12:00:28ZDonald Trump is bullying unions. He picked the wrong fight | Larry Cohenhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/donald-trump-bullying-unions-picked-wrong-fight
<p>The president-elect slammed a Carrier union leader and then chose a fast-food executive to be labor secretary. The working-class will fight back</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/dec/08/andrew-puzder-labor-secretary-trump-unions-wages">Andrew Puzder criticized as 'cruel and baffling' choice for labor secretary</a> </p><p>It is repulsive but not shocking that Donald Trump, the billionaire businessman and president-elect, feels free to target Chuck Jones, the United Steelworkers local president, who is nothing short of a working-class hero. In a <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/08/us/politics/donald-trump-twitter-carrier-chuck-jones.html?hp&amp;action=click&amp;pgtype=Homepage&amp;clickSource=story-heading&amp;module=first-column-region&amp;region=top-news&amp;WT.nav=top-news&amp;_r=0">tweet</a>, Trump wrote Chuck Jones “has done a terrible job representing workers”. This was after the union leader criticized <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/dec/03/donald-trump-carrier-factory-indiana-jobs-tax-breaks">the Carrier job deal</a>. But Chuck has a slingshot, namely thousands of members in Indianapolis and a resistance movement that is stirring across our nation. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/donald-trump-bullying-unions-picked-wrong-fight">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationUS newsFri, 09 Dec 2016 16:12:42 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/donald-trump-bullying-unions-picked-wrong-fightPhotograph: Michelle Pemberton/APPhotograph: Michelle Pemberton/APLarry Cohen2016-12-09T16:12:42ZCalls for American unity are misplaced. We must fight on for justice | Jessica Valentihttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/american-unity-calls-trump-presidency-fight-on-equality-rights
<p>It’s hard to know where to start when faced with the prospect of Donald Trump’s presidency. The answer is not seeking alliance with those who devalue our lives</p><p>As the majority of Americans who didn’t vote for Donald Trump come to terms with having elected a shameless bigot and liar as our next president, there’s been quite a bit of pontificating about how best to make progress under his administration. Do we pay attention to tweets or cabinet appointments? Focus on making sure the white supremacists celebrating Trump’s win aren’t normalized in the media? Take on fake news?</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/time-magazine-trump-devil-horns">Time magazine didn't give Trump devil horns. God did | Jonathan Jones</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/american-unity-calls-trump-presidency-fight-on-equality-rights">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationProtestUS newsFri, 09 Dec 2016 12:30:28 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/american-unity-calls-trump-presidency-fight-on-equality-rightsPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoJessica Valenti2016-12-09T12:30:28ZThe EPA's mission is more crucial than ever. Scott Pruitt must respect it | Daniel J Fiorinohttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/epa-mission-crucial-scott-pruitt
<p>Many are saying that Donald Trump’s Environmental Protection Agency pick is disastrous. If Pruitt is confirmed, he must accept his mandate</p><p>The Environmental Protection Agency has been perhaps the most visible and influential organization of its kind in the world since Richard Nixon created it in 1970. Since then, it has managed a portfolio of pollution control laws and programs and provided science-based, economically reasonable environmental protection for nearly half a century.</p><p>The fear shared by many of us who have been part of the agency and its mission is that Donald Trump and his nominee to run the agency, Oklahoma attorney general <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/dec/08/scott-pruitt-trump-administration-epa-oil-gas-environment">Scott Pruitt</a>, are set on taking the EPA to a place where it may no longer be able to carry out these vital responsibilities.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/epa-mission-crucial-scott-pruitt">Continue reading...</a>US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)Trump administrationEnvironmentUS newsFri, 09 Dec 2016 14:59:01 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/epa-mission-crucial-scott-pruittPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoDaniel J Fiorino2016-12-09T14:59:01ZI’ve scaled the summit of peak stuff. This Christmas I’m climbing down | Gaby Hinsliffhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/peak-stuff-christmas-shopping
<p>It’s easy to buy expensive things we don’t need. This year my family is trying something different</p><p>Do you remember Peak Stuff? We reached it back in January, if that helps jog the memory. Or at least that was when Ikea’s chief sustainability officer Steve Howard declared that so many people now have so many material belongings that we’re reaching <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2016/jan/18/weve-hit-peak-home-furnishings-says-ikea-boss-consumerism" title="">saturation point</a>. Drowning in stuff. Sick to the back teeth of stuff. (Apart, obviously, from those who don’t have enough of even the most basic stuff, including food and a roof over their heads, but then they presumably are not Ikea’s target customers.)</p><p>The gist of it, anyway, was that awareness of the environmental and human&nbsp;costs of making things is making people faintly uneasy about buying whatever they crave and then swapping it for something new the minute they get bored.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/peak-stuff-christmas-shopping">Continue reading...</a>ChristmasCharitiesUK newsSocietyLife and styleFri, 09 Dec 2016 07:00:22 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/09/peak-stuff-christmas-shoppingPhotograph: David Sillitoe for the GuardianPhotograph: David Sillitoe for the GuardianGaby Hinsliff2016-12-09T07:00:22ZDon't assume Trump is dumb. He knows exactly what he's doing | Richard Wolffehttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/donald-trump-plays-dumb-dangerous-act
<p>His Taiwan call was written off as a gaffe. Actually, like so much else, it was more calculated than it seemed</p><p>Whatever the Trump era represents, it surely marks the dawn of a golden age of satire. But beware of laughing too much: the joke might be on us. Yes, Trump tweets like a buffoon. But we should not assume that all the missteps by the petulant president-in-waiting are down to ignorance: they aren’t.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/03/donald-trump-facts-lies-trumpism">It's Trump's America now. Time to get over our attachment to facts | Richard Wolffe</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/donald-trump-plays-dumb-dangerous-act">Continue reading...</a>Donald TrumpUS newsUS foreign policyUS politicsThu, 08 Dec 2016 12:00:03 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/donald-trump-plays-dumb-dangerous-actPhotograph: Will Heath/APPhotograph: Will Heath/APRichard Wolffe2016-12-08T12:00:03ZWant to discredit Donald Trump? Show his base he's part of the elite | Ben Adlerhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/07/how-to-discredit-donald-trump-part-of-the-elite
<p>Trump is stocking his cabinet from the establishment. Democrats should reiterate his betrayal of the ‘drain the swamp’ campaign promise like a mantra</p><p>Democrats lost to Donald Trump because they were unable to capitalize sufficiently on his political weaknesses – lying, bigotry, bankruptcies, allegations of serial sexual assault – that would normally be considered disqualifying. If they are to limit the damage Trump wreaks on the country and beat him in four years, they need a new strategy. Fortunately for them, he is already handing them one by behaving as a corrupt kleptocrat.<br></p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/03/donald-trump-facts-lies-trumpism">It's Trump's America now. Time to get over our attachment to facts | Richard Wolffe</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/07/how-to-discredit-donald-trump-part-of-the-elite">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationDonald TrumpSteve BannonWed, 07 Dec 2016 12:00:30 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/07/how-to-discredit-donald-trump-part-of-the-elitePhotograph: Evan Vucci/APPhotograph: Evan Vucci/APBen Adler2016-12-07T12:00:30ZTime magazine didn't give Trump devil horns. God did | Jonathan Joneshttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/time-magazine-trump-devil-horns
<p>Why is there a Twitter fantasy about his satanic cranial outgrowths? Because his election really does feel like something out of a horror film</p><p>Time magazine denies doing it on purpose, yet the sign is there. The mark – and this one is much more visible than the 666 that I have been told by a maverick Vatican priest is tattooed on Donald Trump’s left buttock. </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2016/nov/10/photographers-best-trump-shot">Photographers on their best Trump shot: 'I think he's a damaged person'</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/time-magazine-trump-devil-horns">Continue reading...</a>Donald TrumpTrump administrationTime magazineThu, 08 Dec 2016 15:28:54 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/time-magazine-trump-devil-hornsPhotograph: HANDOUT/ReutersPhotograph: HANDOUT/ReutersJonathan Jones2016-12-08T15:28:54ZWhy Steve Bannon wants to destroy secularism | Daniel Steinmetz-Jenkinshttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/07/why-steve-bannon-wants-to-destroy-secularism
<p>The former head of Breitbart and senior Trump strategist blames the decline of Judeo-Christian values for most of the western world’s ills</p><p>Just what does Steve Bannon believe? For some, his thinking can be boiled down to racism. For others, he is merely a sinister opportunist taking advantage of Trump and the “alt-right”, a far-right movement in the US, for economic gain and fame. But what if he is fundamentally driven by something else? Like: religion. </p><p>During a 2014 conference hosted by the very conservative Human Dignity Institute at the Vatican, Bannon <a href="https://www.buzzfeed.com/lesterfeder/this-is-how-steve-bannon-sees-the-entire-world">laid out his belief</a> in “traditionalism”. To him, it signifies, among other things, a third-way attempt to counter the “crony capitalism” of neoliberalism, and the “state sponsored capitalism” of the Soviet Union and China.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/07/why-steve-bannon-wants-to-destroy-secularism">Continue reading...</a>Steve BannonUS newsWed, 07 Dec 2016 16:13:50 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/07/why-steve-bannon-wants-to-destroy-secularismPhotograph: Evan Vucci/APPhotograph: Evan Vucci/APDaniel Steinmetz-Jenkins2016-12-07T16:13:50ZHillary Clinton conspiracy theories are a generation in the making | Jill Abramsonhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/hillary-clinton-conspiracy-theories-far-right-jill-abramson
<p>Clinton’s supporters aren’t ‘sore losers,’ and Donald Trump’s way of working isn’t normal. The far right has spent years building opposition to her</p><p>Since Trump won the election, the focus on his fringe connections has largely receded. Coverage of the new administration has quickly normalized. Washington reporters seem relieved to be covering a familiar ritual, the competition for top jobs in the Trump administration. Stories on Trump’s many conflicts of interest and abandoned promises have appeared, but none seem to resonate with the public.<br></p><p>Thankfully, some events shake us out of our complacency. At Harvard last week, a bitter fight broke out between senior Trump and Clinton aides who appeared at a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/03/donald-trump-facts-lies-trumpism">conference</a>, held after every presidential election. The hundred or so student protesters standing outside with signs denouncing Donald Trump and his consigliere, Steve Bannon, indicated a different tone for this year’s confab. What set off the fireworks were comments praising Bannon, who did not attend, from David Bossie, Trump’s deputy campaign manager.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/hillary-clinton-conspiracy-theories-far-right-jill-abramson">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationSteve BannonRepublicansHillary ClintonJames ComeyUS newsTue, 06 Dec 2016 15:55:04 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/hillary-clinton-conspiracy-theories-far-right-jill-abramsonPhotograph: Drew Angerer/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Drew Angerer/Getty ImagesJill Abramson2016-12-06T15:55:04ZPizzagate is a lie. But what it says about our society is real | Ijeoma Oluohttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/05/pizzagate-lie-what-it-says-about-society-real
<p>Americans who believe fake news aren’t duped. They willingly decide to accept whatever outrageous story fits their bias and hatred </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/dec/05/gunman-detained-at-comet-pizza-restaurant-was-self-investigating-fake-news-reports">Washington gunman motivated by fake news 'Pizzagate' conspiracy</a> </p><p>In any other year, a story like “<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/dec/05/gunman-detained-at-comet-pizza-restaurant-was-self-investigating-fake-news-reports">Pizzagate</a>” would get you laughed out of the room. The conspiracy theory claiming that Hillary Clinton was part of an underground child-sex trafficking ring run out of a pizza shop, is bizarre and disturbing from start to finish. But in 2016 – a year where nothing seems to make sense anymore – a story like that can be cited as a motive for a crime.<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/05/pizzagate-lie-what-it-says-about-society-real">Continue reading...</a>Hillary ClintonUS gun controlMediaUS newsMon, 05 Dec 2016 22:01:28 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/05/pizzagate-lie-what-it-says-about-society-realPhotograph: Jim Lo Scalzo/EPAPhotograph: Jim Lo Scalzo/EPAIjeoma Oluo2016-12-05T22:01:28ZWalter Scott was shot on camera. When will he receive justice? | Steven W Thrasherhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/walter-scott-mistrial-shot-on-camera-justice
<p>Despite video evidence of his killing, the case ended in a mistrial. It is a reminder that American law simply does not value black life</p><p>Like most black people I know, I wasn’t especially surprised that a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/dec/05/walter-scott-shooting-michael-slager-police-officer-mistrial">jury was unable to convict</a> white South Carolina police officer Michael Slager for killing Walter Scott, despite shooting him multiple times in the back and on video. The people I know who live in black and brown skin were also relatively unsurprised to learn last week that a white man in Louisiana, Ronald Gasser, was initially <a href="http://wgno.com/2016/12/02/joe-mcknight-shooter-released-from-custody-overnight/">released from custody without charges</a> after shooting and killing former NFL player Joe McKnight. He was charged with manslaughter on Tuesday.<br tabindex="-1"></p><p>Are we hurt by news of tragedies like Scott’s killing and a lack of justice for it? Yes. Are we sad to know Joe McKnight’s killer was walking around free after the shooting? Of course. Humiliated to know that Gasser could have emboldened other people to shoot black men with impunity? Very much so.<br tabindex="-1"></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/walter-scott-mistrial-shot-on-camera-justice">Continue reading...</a>Walter Scott shootingUS newsTue, 06 Dec 2016 18:14:11 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/walter-scott-mistrial-shot-on-camera-justicePhotograph: ddp USA/REX/ShutterstockPhotograph: ddp USA/REX/ShutterstockSteven W Thrasher2016-12-06T18:14:11ZHungary's sharp rightward-turn is a warning to America | Susan Faludihttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/05/hungary-right-trend-us-viktor-orban-donald-trump
<p>Under Viktor Orban, a leader admired by Trump, free speech has come under sustained attack. Despite the first amendment, it could happen in the US</p><p>When I visit Budapest this spring, it will be with a certain edge of trepidation. Not because the city is so foreign – I’ve paid many visits in the course of writing a book about my Hungarian-born father’s life. I’ve come to love the place. And though this trip is timed to the Hungarian publication of that book, I’m not suffering from the usual interview stage fright. In short, I’m leery of the government. While one side of my book chronicles my father’s lifelong search for identity, the other side examines Hungary’s quest for a national identity, post-communism, and takes to task the current rightwing regime. The problem is: challenging the Hungarian government in print or on air can land a journalist in court.<br></p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/01/hungary-freedom-viktor-orban-rabble-rousers-migrants-refugees-racism">Hungarians fought for freedom in 1956, not Orban’s rabble-rousers | George Szirtes</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/05/hungary-right-trend-us-viktor-orban-donald-trump">Continue reading...</a>US politicsMediaUS newsWorld newsHungaryEuropeMon, 05 Dec 2016 15:37:46 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/05/hungary-right-trend-us-viktor-orban-donald-trumpPhotograph: Darko Vojinovic/APPhotograph: Darko Vojinovic/APSusan Faludi2016-12-05T15:37:46ZIf Republicans want to cut fat, they might start at the Pentagon | Trevor Timmhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/if-republicans-want-to-cut-fat-start-at-the-pentagon
<p>The defense department hid its own study showing wasteful spending. If the Trump administration wants to cut government waste, start there</p><p>Republicans are always railing against “government waste” in their never-ending quest to cut government programs. Well, the <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/pentagon-buries-evidence-of-125-billion-in-bureaucratic-waste/2016/12/05/e0668c76-9af6-11e6-a0ed-ab0774c1eaa5_story.html?utm_term=.e3a0ac313cde&amp;wpisrc=al_alert-COMBO-exclusive%252Bnational">Washington Post has presented them</a> with the quintessential example of what they can tackle as soon as the new Congress is sworn in: an almost unfathomable amount of taxpayer dollars being wasted at the defense department.</p><p>The Post’s Craig Whitlock and Bob Woodward <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/pentagon-buries-evidence-of-125-billion-in-bureaucratic-waste/2016/12/05/e0668c76-9af6-11e6-a0ed-ab0774c1eaa5_story.html?utm_term=.e3a0ac313cde&amp;wpisrc=al_alert-COMBO-exclusive%252Bnational">published an incredible investigation</a> on Monday uncovering that the Pentagon itself commissioned an internal report aimed at identifying wasteful spending within its bureaucracy. The auditors, which only looked at the agency’s business and support operations, found a staggering $125bn that the Pentagon was wasting. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/if-republicans-want-to-cut-fat-start-at-the-pentagon">Continue reading...</a>US national securityTrump administrationRepublicansTue, 06 Dec 2016 19:38:26 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/if-republicans-want-to-cut-fat-start-at-the-pentagonPhotograph: STAFF/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: STAFF/AFP/Getty ImagesTrevor Timm2016-12-06T19:38:26ZThe victory at Standing Rock could mark a turning point | Bill McKibbenhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/04/standing-rock-victory-turning-point
<p>The defeat of an energy company by indigenous activists shows what nonviolent unity can accomplish. There are lessons here as we enter a challenging new age</p><p>The news that the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/dec/04/dakota-access-pipeline-permit-denied-standing-rock">US federal government</a> has refused to issue the permit needed to run a pipeline under the Missouri river means many things – including that indigenous activists have won a smashing victory, one that shows what nonviolent unity can accomplish. </p><p> From the start, this has been an against-the-odds battle. Energy Transfer Partners, the company building the pipeline, is as wired as they come: its line of credit links it to virtually every bank you’ve ever heard of. And operating under a “fast-track” permit process, it had managed to win most of its approvals and lay most of its pipe before opponents managed to mount an effective resistance.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/04/standing-rock-victory-turning-point">Continue reading...</a>Dakota Access pipelineUS newsWorld newsEnvironmentSun, 04 Dec 2016 22:14:56 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/04/standing-rock-victory-turning-pointPhotograph: Jim Watson/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Jim Watson/AFP/Getty ImagesBill McKibben2016-12-04T22:14:56ZTrump's Great Gatsby government will be a gift to the rich | Nomi Prinshttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/donald-trump-cabinet-positions-wealthy-key-interests
<p>Donald Trump is selecting a gilded elite to fill key cabinet positions. They have signaled loud and clear that they will serve their interests alone</p><p>Donald Trump’s administration will be the most affluent ever. Estimates are imprecise because we don’t even know the president-elect’s true net worth, but the wealth of his cabinet picks so far <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/dec/02/trumps-rich-pickings-president-elects-team-could-be-wealthiest-ever">range</a> from $12bn to $35bn. At the very least, this <a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2009/03/27/who-are-the-wealthiest-members-of-the-obama-administration/">q</a><a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2009/03/27/who-are-the-wealthiest-members-of-the-obama-administration/">uadruples</a> that of the Obama cabinet. But more than just representing his friends, loyalists and family, the natural alliances among these people, their hallowed predispositions, will impact the policies they form. <br></p><p>We know the dangers of this skewed power. Before F Scott Fitzgerald wrote The Great Gatsby, he published The Rich Boy, a 1924 short story, in which the narrator says: “Let me tell you about the very rich. They are different from you and me ... They think, deep in their hearts, that they are better than we are because we had to discover the compensations and refuges of life for ourselves.”<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/donald-trump-cabinet-positions-wealthy-key-interests">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationUS newsWorld newsFri, 02 Dec 2016 17:10:01 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/donald-trump-cabinet-positions-wealthy-key-interestsPhotograph: Jason Szenes/EPAPhotograph: Jason Szenes/EPANomi Prins2016-12-02T17:10:01ZWhy is the Obama administration opposing rights for immigrant detainees? | Daniel Denvirhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/obama-administration-opposing-rights-for-immigrant-detainees
<p>Non-citizens are often locked up as they fight deportation proceedings, even if they’re in the country legally or don’t pose a flight risk</p><p>Immigrants detained for months and even years by the federal government should have no right to a bond hearing to determine whether their detention is necessary or justified. That might seem like an extreme statement. It is. But it’s not coming from Donald Trump. That’s what lawyers for the Obama administration this week argued before the US supreme court in Jennings v Rodriguez.</p><p>Non-citizens, including lawful permanent residents, are often locked up for lengthy periods in prison-like conditions while fighting deportation proceedings. That’s a result of a 1996 law, signed by President Bill Clinton, which made detention mandatory for a huge swath of immigrants convicted of crimes – even minor ones and even cases where an immigrant poses no public safety or flight risk. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/obama-administration-opposing-rights-for-immigrant-detainees">Continue reading...</a>US supreme courtUS immigrationTrump administrationObama administrationLawUS newsFri, 02 Dec 2016 15:35:29 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/obama-administration-opposing-rights-for-immigrant-detaineesPhotograph: John Moore/Getty ImagesPhotograph: John Moore/Getty ImagesDaniel Denvir2016-12-02T15:35:29ZUnder Donald Trump, the scourge of HIV/Aids is going to get worse | Steven Thrasherhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/donald-trump-hiv-aids-policy
<p>Trump’s anti-gay, anti-science cabinet is going to put more people at risk of infection, and make the lives of those already infected worse</p><p>An <a href="http://nycaidsmemorial.org/">Aids memorial</a> is being unveiled in New York City today. While it is fitting to have right here in Greenwich Village a grand Jenny Holzer-designed, Walt Whitman-inscribed memorial to the <a href="http://www.who.int/gho/hiv/en/">35 million</a> people who have died from Aids and the <a href="http://www.who.int/gho/hiv/en/">37 million</a> people currently living with HIV, there is little to celebrate locally or globally.</p><p>Just across the street, St Vincent’s hospital – an epicenter of the epidemic in its early years – has died, just as so many gay men did within its walls in the 1980s. It is being converted into luxury condos. That a hospital which served the most marginalized would be replaced by real estate for the super wealthy is a fitting metaphor in the age of a real estate developer-turned-president. Indeed, Donald Trump is set to preside over a newly harmful period in HIV history.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/donald-trump-hiv-aids-policy">Continue reading...</a>Aids and HIVDonald TrumpUS newsSocietyWorld newsThu, 01 Dec 2016 10:00:43 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/donald-trump-hiv-aids-policyPhotograph: a2t for studio ai architectsPhotograph: a2t for studio ai architectsSteven W Thrasher2016-12-01T10:00:43ZI'm on the 'professor watchlist.' It's a ploy to undermine free speech | Anthea Butlerhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/us-universities-professor-watchlist-free-speech
<p>The rightwing roundup isn’t protecting conservatism – it’s making an Orwellian environment at universities where all ideas should be welcome</p><p>The release of the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/dec/02/professor-watchlist-website-academic">professor watchlist</a>, purporting to expose professors who discriminate against conservative students, is anything but that. I should know: I’m on it. </p><p>As one of a handful of religion professors in the US who study, write and teach about conservative Christianity and politics, I am all too aware of the real meaning of the list, and of its purpose. Promoted by <a href="http://www.tpusa.com/chapters/">Turning Point USA</a>, the list is not simply designed to expose professors who discriminate; it is designed to silence and smear. And it helps feed information and screeds to similar sites like <a href="http://www.thecollegefix.com/">the College Fix</a> and <a href="https://www.campusreform.org/">Campus Reform</a>, which states that they are “a watchdog to the nation’s higher education system” to “expose bias and abuse on the nations college campuses”.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/us-universities-professor-watchlist-free-speech">Continue reading...</a>US universitiesRepublicansUS newsFri, 02 Dec 2016 16:48:27 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/us-universities-professor-watchlist-free-speechPhotograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyAnthea Butler2016-12-02T16:48:27ZGood luck getting healthcare in Donald Trump's America | Miranda Yaverhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/donald-trump-tom-price-healthcare-affordable-care-act
<p>Despite decades as a doctor, HHS pick Tom Price puts his conservative politics over medical evidence that the ACA has helped many Americans</p><p>After an election dominated by rhetoric and anti-establishment sentiment more than policy specifics, the upset of 8 November left open many questions as to how President-elect Donald Trump would steer the nation. More questions still were raised when it was suggested that, contrary to his campaign promise, some aspects of the Affordable Care Act might, indeed, be salvaged. Such hopes have been dashed.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/22/king-trump-republican-party-donald-trump-presidency">Welcome to the reign of King Trump | Ben Fountain</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/donald-trump-tom-price-healthcare-affordable-care-act">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationHealth policyHealthPoliticsPublic services policyUS newsWed, 30 Nov 2016 16:18:51 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/donald-trump-tom-price-healthcare-affordable-care-actPhotograph: Carolyn Kaster/APPhotograph: Carolyn Kaster/APMiranda Yaver2016-11-30T16:18:51ZToxic Trumpism may have one formidable foe: corporate America | Bakari T Sellershttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/trumpism-corporate-america-donald-trump-businesses
<p>Companies that don’t want to be aligned with the hatred that fueled Donald Trump’s campaign are spurning associations with him</p><p>Donald Trump may have been democratically elected president, but there are plenty of people who find this appalling. That nearly <a href="http://cookpolitical.com/story/10174">73 million</a> American voters rejected the xenophobia, racism, sexism and hatred that fueled Trump’s campaign could be an opportunity – for corporate America. </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2016/nov/29/kellogg-pulls-ads-from-breitbart-news-alt-right">Kellogg pulls ads from Breitbart News: site isn't 'aligned with our values'</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/trumpism-corporate-america-donald-trump-businesses">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationBusinessUS newsDonald TrumpUS politicsThu, 01 Dec 2016 18:17:06 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/trumpism-corporate-america-donald-trump-businessesPhotograph: Kai Pfaffenbach/ReutersPhotograph: Kai Pfaffenbach/ReutersBakari T Sellers2016-12-01T18:17:06Z'Power posing' is a sham. Time to redefine what strength looks like | Jean Hannah Edelsteinhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/power-posing-trend-sham-study
<p>A study debunked the idea that puffing yourself up physically to increase confidence works. Let’s stop prizing masculinity in power and leadership</p><p>Given the election night coup of a certain blustering, overly confident egomaniac, it might seem like channeling a very masculine idea of success is a good way to get ahead. After all, Donald Trump lurked menacingly over Hillary Clinton on the debate stage, blustered and bragged, and he triumphed. It seems a smart strategy to emulate aggressive masculine behavior if planning a power grab.</p><p>But writing in the journal Hormones and Behavior, two researchers <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0018506X1630023X">undermined</a> previous findings that standing in a “power pose” – that is “broad posture, hands on hips, shoulders high and pushed back”, or what I would describe as “in the manner of a blustering, bigoted kleptocrat” – has no measurable effect on feelings of emotional or physical strength. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/power-posing-trend-sham-study">Continue reading...</a>ScienceThu, 01 Dec 2016 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/power-posing-trend-sham-studyPhotograph: Kai Pfaffenbach/ReutersPhotograph: Kai Pfaffenbach/ReutersJean Hannah Edelstein2016-12-01T12:00:00ZThe recount is a distraction. Only a strong left can beat Trump | Kate Aronoffhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/election-recount-distration-jill-stein-democratic-party
<p>Some hope Trump’s presidency can be averted through Jill Stein’s initiative. What we should focus on instead is strengthening the Democratic party</p><p>It’s hard to imagine a happy ending to the recount of this year’s election results, spearheaded by Green party presidential candidate Jill Stein. Barring miracles in Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania in the coming weeks, the challenge for the next four years remains the same: make Trump’s job impossible, and build a visionary alternative to both his autocracy and Clinton’s Third Way neoliberalism. Everything else is a distraction.</p><p>Stein has been joined by dozens of lawyers and security experts, $5m in crowdfunding and Hillary Clinton in her recount efforts. But neither Clinton nor Stein are the right women for the job of standing up to Trump. Continuing to revolve a media circus around either could cause us to lose focus from the task ahead.<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/election-recount-distration-jill-stein-democratic-party">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationJill SteinHillary ClintonUS newsWed, 30 Nov 2016 12:00:17 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/election-recount-distration-jill-stein-democratic-partyPhotograph: D. Ross Cameron/APPhotograph: D. Ross Cameron/APKate Aronoff2016-11-30T12:00:17ZThink Trump's scary now? Obama is leaving him with broad war powers | Trevor Timmhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/donald-trump-barack-obama-president-broad-war-powers
<p>The president-elect keeps news cycles churning with his unhinged tweets, but it’s the current administration’s expanding military license that should scare us</p><p>In all the outrage about the unhinged things Donald Trump keeps tweeting and saying, there’s been almost zero criticism at the fact that Obama will be partly responsible for the extraordinary scope of powers Trump inherits. The Obama administration has not only done nothing to curtail the slew of extreme national security and war powers that Trump is about to acquire since the election – the White House is actively expanding them.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/17/donald-trump-administration-conflicts-of-interest">If Donald Trump gets his way, his administration will be disastrous | Trevor Timm</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/donald-trump-barack-obama-president-broad-war-powers">Continue reading...</a>Drones (military)Obama administrationTrump administrationSeptember 11 2001Islamic StateAl-ShabaabTue, 29 Nov 2016 16:33:34 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/donald-trump-barack-obama-president-broad-war-powersPhotograph: Microsoft BingPhotograph: Microsoft BingTrevor Timm2016-11-29T16:33:34ZHow the Democrats could win again, if they wanted | Thomas Frankhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/how-the-democrats-could-win-again-if-they-wanted
<p>Labor and economic equality used to be at the heart of liberal politics. Rich professionals expunged these concerns – and have reaped the consequences</p><p>What makes 2016 a disaster for Democrats is not merely the party’s epic wipeout in Washington and the state capitals, but that the contest was fought out on a terrain that should have been favorable to them. This was an election about social class –about class-based grievances – and yet the Party of the People blew it. How that happened is the question of the year, just as it has been the question of other disastrous election years before. And just like before, I suspect the Democrats will find all manner of convenient reasons to take no corrective action.</p><p>But first let us focus on the good news. Donald Trump has smashed the consensus factions of both parties. Along the way, he has destroyed the core doctrine of Clintonism: that all elections are decided by money and that therefore Democrats must match Republican fundraising dollar for dollar. This is the doctrine on which progressive hopes have been sacrificed for decades, and now it is dead. Clinton outspent Trump two-to-one and it still wasn’t enough.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/how-the-democrats-could-win-again-if-they-wanted">Continue reading...</a>US politicsUS newsDemocratsWorld newsTue, 29 Nov 2016 12:00:48 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/how-the-democrats-could-win-again-if-they-wantedPhotograph: Mark Ralston/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Mark Ralston/AFP/Getty ImagesThomas Frank2016-11-29T12:00:48ZPublic schools may not survive Trump's billionaire wrecking crew | Nikhil Goyalhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/public-school-system-trump-administration-betsy-devos
<p>His education secretary pick, Betsy DeVos, is a fierce supporter of private schools and the voucher movement. She could end education as we know it</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/my-dads-reagan-protests-inspire-me-to-stand-up-to-donald-trump">My dad's Reagan protests inspire me to stand up to Donald Trump | Steven W Thrasher</a> </p><p>Donald Trump, a self-described billionaire, wants billionaire heiress Betsy DeVos to take over the Department of Education. These two ultra-rich people have never attended public schools. Nor have they sent their kids to them. Yet they will likely accelerate the bipartisan dismantling of public education as we know it. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/public-school-system-trump-administration-betsy-devos">Continue reading...</a>US educationTrump administrationUS newsEducationWed, 30 Nov 2016 12:30:18 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/public-school-system-trump-administration-betsy-devosPhotograph: Carolyn Kaster/APPhotograph: Carolyn Kaster/APNikhil Goyal2016-11-30T12:30:18ZWorld leaders beware: a photo with Trump will expose your soul | Stuart Heritagehttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/world-leaders-beware-photo-with-trump-will-expose-your-soul
<p>Mitt Romney, Chris Christie, Barack Obama and Nigel Farage are all destined to be remembered for how they looked when they were photographed with the president-elect</p><p>You could get lost in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/nov/30/mitt-romney-praises-donald-trump-dinner-twitter?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other">that photo of Donald Trump and Mitt Romney</a>, couldn’t you? Every time you look at it, another new detail rises to the surface and breaks your heart. The angle of Romney’s eyebrows. The self-satisfied lurch in Trump’s neck. The bottle of wine in the background and the glasses of water on the table. The sensation that Trump has shoved away his plate of scallops and demanded that someone bring him a big bowl of Sugar Puffs and a mixing spoon.</p><p>But it is Romney’s face that makes this such a fascinating picture. Look at it. There is no way on Earth that Romney expected the photo to be taken. He is, remember, the most presidential-looking non-president in the history of the United States. He looks like what you would get if you asked a beachside cartoonist on Martha’s Vineyard to draw a human version of a bald eagle. Yet here he is, three mouthfuls into a meal, looking sheepish and squirming as if he has just been caught in bed with another woman. If this photo had a caption, it would be: “Honey! What are you doing back so early?”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/world-leaders-beware-photo-with-trump-will-expose-your-soul">Continue reading...</a>Donald TrumpMitt RomneyTrump administrationUS elections 2016US politicsUS newsNigel FaragePoliticsChris ChristieBarack ObamaWed, 30 Nov 2016 15:26:28 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/world-leaders-beware-photo-with-trump-will-expose-your-soulPhotograph: Drew Angerer/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Drew Angerer/Getty ImagesStuart Heritage2016-11-30T15:26:28ZStanding Rock is the civil rights issue of our time – let's act accordingly | Bill McKibbenhttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/standing-rock-civil-rights-act-accordingly
<p>The US government sent helpers to protect integration efforts in the 1960s. Why not do more to protect the Dakota Pipeline protesters today?</p><p>When John Doar died in 2014, Barack Obama, who’d already <a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/blog/champion-civil-rights-john-doar-awarded-medal-freedom">awarded</a> him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, called him “one of America’s bravest lawyers”. Without his courage and perseverance, the president said, “Michelle and I might not be where we are today”.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/standing-rock-protests-neil-young">The Standing Rock protests are a symbolic moment | Neil Young and Daryl Hannah</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/standing-rock-civil-rights-act-accordingly">Continue reading...</a>Dakota Access pipelineRace issuesCivil rights movementUS newsProtestIndigenous peoplesTue, 29 Nov 2016 15:20:28 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/standing-rock-civil-rights-act-accordinglyPhotograph: Stephanie Keith/ReutersPhotograph: Stephanie Keith/ReutersBill McKibben2016-11-29T15:20:28ZThe TPP wasn't killed by Donald Trump – our protests workedhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/tpp-protests-mass-opposition-worked-trump-presidency
<p>We the people can create change by standing together. This is crucial to remember for the next four years</p><p>The <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/11/11/donald-trump-promised-to-rip-up-trade-deals-tpp-is-the-first-casualty/">reports</a> are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2016/nov/12/tpp-trade-deal-congress-obama">rolling</a> in: the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is dead. If you read the obituaries, most news outlets seem to agree that the cause of death was simple: the election of Donald Trump, who railed against the deal during his campaign. But the pundits have the story wrong. </p><p>The real story is that an unprecedented, international uprising of people from across the political spectrum took on some of the most powerful institutions in the world, and won.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/tpp-protests-mass-opposition-worked-trump-presidency">Continue reading...</a>Economic policyPoliticsMon, 28 Nov 2016 12:00:29 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/tpp-protests-mass-opposition-worked-trump-presidencyPhotograph: Nicholas Kamm/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Nicholas Kamm/AFP/Getty ImagesEvan Greer, Tom Morello and Evangeline Lilly2016-11-28T12:00:29ZMy dad's Reagan protests inspire me to stand up to Donald Trump | Steven W Thrasherhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/my-dads-reagan-protests-inspire-me-to-stand-up-to-donald-trump
<p>It’s sad that our ancestors’ battle for equal rights may never end. But I will do my part as my father did </p><p>I have been battling depression and sleeplessness while thinking about how to fight Donald Trump and what his rise means about the United States of America. </p><p>It is dispiriting that after both modest and substantial gains have been made during the Obama and Black Lives Matter years (on race, gender, political imagination, LGBT rights and healthcare) many stand to be rolled back with a vengeance in the coming months and years. The retrenchment is frightening. And it’s become clear that this fight is going to last for the rest of my life.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/my-dads-reagan-protests-inspire-me-to-stand-up-to-donald-trump">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationRonald ReaganUS politicsUS newsMon, 28 Nov 2016 18:51:35 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/my-dads-reagan-protests-inspire-me-to-stand-up-to-donald-trumpPhotograph: Kena Betancur/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Kena Betancur/AFP/Getty ImagesSteven W Thrasher2016-11-28T18:51:35ZWill any celebrities agree to attend Donald Trump's inauguration? | Dave Schillinghttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/27/donald-trump-inauguration-celebrities-present-mar-el-lago-guests
<p>Elton John quickly shut down rumors he was playing on 20 January. He’s not the only former Mar-a-Lago guest who is begging off</p><p>The cost of winning the 2016 US presidential election might finally be sinking in for Donald Trump. It must be quite sobering for a man long fixated on establishing and cultivating relationships with celebrities to realize that most of them have abandoned him. Sure, he’s about to become the commander-in-chief of the most powerful military in the world, but is that as gratifying as <a href="http://featured.blog.palmbeachpost.com/2016/11/10/surprising-celebrities-youll-see-at-donald-trumps-palm-beach-palace/">bro-ing with Lionel Richie</a> at Mar-a-Lago?</p><p>Instead of glitz and glamour, President-elect Trump is stuck pretending to be friends with Steve Bannon, who looks like the kind of person who cleans his ears out with the eraser end of a pencil and microwaves Eggo waffles for breakfast. He’s so loathed that when a Trump spokesperson claimed that Elton John would be performing at the inauguration, the legendary pop star immediately, vehemently <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/23/arts/music/no-elton-john-will-not-perform-at-the-trump-inauguration.html">denied it</a>.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/27/donald-trump-inauguration-celebrities-present-mar-el-lago-guests">Continue reading...</a>Donald TrumpTrump administrationElton JohnSun, 27 Nov 2016 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/27/donald-trump-inauguration-celebrities-present-mar-el-lago-guestsPhotograph: Timothy A. Clary/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Timothy A. Clary/AFP/Getty ImagesDave Schilling2016-11-27T12:00:00ZMy preferred friends? Other working-class people with debt | Melissa Petrohttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/05/my-preferred-friends-working-class-people-debt
<p>I’m drowning financially for reasons the better-off can’t comprehend. That’s why I gravitate towards those with similar experiences </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jun/06/tell-us-about-your-life-in-the-red-how-do-you-survive-with-debt">Tell us about your life in the red: how do you survive with debt?</a> </p><p><strong>Debt</strong>: $80,000+</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/05/my-preferred-friends-working-class-people-debt">Continue reading...</a>US personal financeMoneyMon, 05 Dec 2016 13:00:24 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/05/my-preferred-friends-working-class-people-debtPhotograph: Bebeto Matthews/APPhotograph: Bebeto Matthews/APMelissa Petro2016-12-05T13:00:24ZFacing my fear: to save my autistic son's future, I had to let him go | Elayne Robertson Dembyhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/autistic-son-let-him-go-facing-my-fear
<p>It’s always hard for parents when their children leave home. But usually they can fend for themselves when they do</p><p>Watching the child you once cradled in your arms walk out the door and into their own life always fills a parent with a sense of terror and loss. You raise them as best you can and hope that the adult you created will succeed. </p><p>When that child, however, will never truly be an adult in the typical sense of the word, it’s more complicated. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/autistic-son-let-him-go-facing-my-fear">Continue reading...</a>AutismParents and parentingFamilyLife and styleSocietyFri, 02 Dec 2016 12:00:15 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/autistic-son-let-him-go-facing-my-fearPhotograph: Elayne DembyPhotograph: Elayne DembyElayne Robertson Demby2016-12-02T12:00:15ZMany of us in rural, poor America supported Trump. But he will hurt us | Brook Bolenhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/donald-trump-will-hurt-poor-rural-americans
<p>Donald Trump’s daily assaults on working people are exhausting. His choice for Treasury secretary, Steve Mnuchin, is just the latest example</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/election-recount-distration-jill-stein-democratic-party">The recount is a distraction. Only a strong left can beat Trump | Kate Aronoff</a> </p><p>I live in one of the poorest parts of Virginia, and I’m one of the few members of my family and community who do not support the president-elect. The fact that my own rust-tinged trailer is distinguished by a lack of signs in favor of Trump is a personal point of pride.<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/donald-trump-will-hurt-poor-rural-americans">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationUS newsFinancial crisisThu, 01 Dec 2016 16:59:47 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/01/donald-trump-will-hurt-poor-rural-americansPhotograph: Chris Tilley/ReutersPhotograph: Chris Tilley/ReutersBrook Bolen2016-12-01T16:59:47ZYes, the US economy is rigged. That's why we're striking | Oliwia Pachttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/us-economy-rigged-strike-fight-for-15
<p>Workers at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport and across the country are standing up to support the Fight for $15. We demand a fair minimum wage for all Americans</p><p><br>Since the election, a lot has been written about the widespread anger people feel about the economy. Many think it is rigged in favor of the rich and worry that working Americans put in longer hours for less money. America does not feel fair any more for millions of ordinary people whom the political elites ignore. Working people are slipping behind.</p><p>I know all about that. I work a low-wage job at Chicago’s O’Hare airport. I endure long hours of difficult and physically demanding labor. I am about to graduate from college and I help support my parents after my father lost his job at a factory. But even though I work hard and live at home, I barely have enough money to pay my bills.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/us-economy-rigged-strike-fight-for-15">Continue reading...</a>Minimum wageUS newsUS unionsTue, 29 Nov 2016 12:30:48 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/us-economy-rigged-strike-fight-for-15Photograph: Scott Olson/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Scott Olson/Getty ImagesOliwia Pac2016-11-29T12:30:48ZMy 'treat yourself' mentality landed me with $15,000 of debt | Samantha Daleyhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/my-treat-yourself-mentality-15000-of-debt
<p>It felt like I was having a bubble bath with a nice glass of wine every time I swiped my little piece of plastic</p><p><strong>Debt</strong>: $15,000+<br></p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jun/06/tell-us-about-your-life-in-the-red-how-do-you-survive-with-debt">Tell us about your life in the red: how do you survive with debt?</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/my-treat-yourself-mentality-15000-of-debt">Continue reading...</a>US personal financeMoneyMon, 28 Nov 2016 17:09:58 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/my-treat-yourself-mentality-15000-of-debtPhotograph: Philippe Wojazer/ReutersPhotograph: Philippe Wojazer/ReutersSamantha Daley2016-11-28T17:09:58ZI feared my life lacked meaning. Cancer pushed me to find some | Bradford Frosthttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/26/cancer-diagnosis-existential-life-accomplishments-meaning
<p>Despite lots of accomplishments, I suffered existential angst. A potentially fatal diagnosis made me realize that we can make each moment meaningful</p><p>It was late. I was drunk, nearing my 35th birthday this past May, alone in a dank college dorm room, attending my five-year grad school reunion.</p><p>The journal entry I wrote that night was just one line: “I’m not the man I want to be.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/26/cancer-diagnosis-existential-life-accomplishments-meaning">Continue reading...</a>CancerAlcoholismAlcoholHealthSocietySat, 26 Nov 2016 13:00:32 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/26/cancer-diagnosis-existential-life-accomplishments-meaningPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoBradford Frost2016-11-26T13:00:32ZAs a US traveller, under Bush I sported a Canadian flag patch. Time to dust it off | Lilit Marcushttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/23/american-travelers-pretending-to-canadian-trump-bush
<p>Donald Trump’s first forays into foreign policy this week have made me not just eager to feign Canadianness again but to go there on a longer-term basis</p><p>I began traveling solo as a college student during the Bush years. Before I packed up my backpack and headed to a study abroad program in Madrid, my best friend gave me a gift: a Canadian flag patch. </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/19/canada-response-to-us-election-tell-america-its-great">Canada's response to the US election is a most Canadian nod to our predicament | Jean Hannah Edelstein</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/23/american-travelers-pretending-to-canadian-trump-bush">Continue reading...</a>Trump administrationGeorge BushObama administrationCanadaAmericasUS newsWed, 23 Nov 2016 12:00:03 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/23/american-travelers-pretending-to-canadian-trump-bushPhotograph: Grant Faint/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Grant Faint/Getty ImagesLilit Marcus2016-11-23T12:00:03ZI nearly died from an insect sting. The fear it left was worse than the wound | Beverly Willetthttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/18/insect-allergy-epipen-life-or-death-experience
<p>I carried an EpiPen around for years, more as a crutch than a reassurance. Then one day, I forgot it while walking in a field of bee-friendly wildflowers</p><p>Twenty-six years ago I almost died. My husband and I had rented a house in a seasonal beach community. I was examining the menu outside the town’s restaurant when I felt a sharp pain in my left earlobe. My vision blurred and my knees buckled. </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/25/tell-us-about-a-time-you-faced-your-fear">Tell us about a time you faced your fear</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/18/insect-allergy-epipen-life-or-death-experience">Continue reading...</a>BeesInsectsWildlifeEnvironmentAllergiesFri, 18 Nov 2016 12:00:16 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/18/insect-allergy-epipen-life-or-death-experiencePhotograph: Rebecca Cole/Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Rebecca Cole/Alamy Stock PhotoBeverly Willett2016-11-18T12:00:16ZI am a Democrat in rural, red-state America. My party abandoned us | Jane Lindsdayhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/15/rural-america-working-class-voters-democrats-donald-trump
<p>Donald Trump came and said he cared. It’s not rocket science: that’s why he won</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/15/feminists-election-misunderstood-women-voters">Feminists misunderstood the presidential election from day one | Liza Featherstone</a> </p><p>I come from rural Texas. I am one of the handful of people here who votes blue – and I put up with all kinds of ridicule and rejection because of that. Many of the people who voted for Trump are my friends and family. Yes, some of them are racist but not all of them are. The reason they support Trump is simple: their needs have been thrown aside for years.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/15/rural-america-working-class-voters-democrats-donald-trump">Continue reading...</a>US elections 2016US politicsUS newsTue, 15 Nov 2016 17:38:15 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/15/rural-america-working-class-voters-democrats-donald-trumpPhotograph: Mark Makela/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Mark Makela/Getty ImagesJane Lindsay2016-11-15T17:38:15ZFellow white evangelicals: your votes for Trump shook my faith | Sam Thielmanhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/16/white-evangelical-christians-vote-trump
<p>Four in five of you put perceived injustices and immediate gain ahead of a greater good more in line with Christianity’s teachings</p><p>As we enter the era of Donald Trump, I have to confess that I only now understand how purely cruel my fellow Christians are. I find it hard to pray as a result.</p><p>White American evangelicals, who produced me, and among whom I must count myself, have thoroughly demonstrated how little we care about our representation of Christ to the world, how gleefully willing we are to put our own interests and grievances above the teachings of Jesus. And we have done that where we always do it: in the voting booth. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/16/white-evangelical-christians-vote-trump">Continue reading...</a>Evangelical ChristianityDonald TrumpReligionUS newsChristianityWed, 16 Nov 2016 12:00:18 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/16/white-evangelical-christians-vote-trumpPhotograph: Enrique Marcarian/REUTERSPhotograph: Enrique Marcarian/REUTERSSam Thielman2016-11-16T12:00:18ZLoan forgiveness was meant to help me get out of debt. It did the opposite | Andrea Moorehttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/14/loan-forgiveness-debt-restructing-program-problems
<p>How did a program designed to help public servants confine me to what feels like indefinite servitude?</p><p><strong>Debt</strong>: $120,000+<br></p><p><strong>Source</strong>: Student loans</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/14/loan-forgiveness-debt-restructing-program-problems">Continue reading...</a>MoneyUS student debtMon, 14 Nov 2016 12:30:47 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/14/loan-forgiveness-debt-restructing-program-problemsPhotograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyAndrea Moore2016-11-14T12:30:47ZI took a DNA test hoping for surprises, but I'm exactly who I thought I was | Samantha Gillisonhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/12/dna-test-surprises-exactly-who-i-thought
<p>We all dream of being something grander than we seem, making the lure of home DNA kits irresistible. But for the most part, you’re in for disappointment</p><p>At first glance the DNA ancestry “<a href="http://stream.aljazeera.com/story/201610110031-0025300">craze</a>” may seem like yet another navel-gazing fad cleverly <a draggable="true" href="https://www.ancestry.com/corporate/newsroom/press-releases/ancestrycom-llc-reports-first-quarter-2016-financial-results">monetized</a> by the tech industry. But personal genetic testing is much more than a kind of Snapchat filter for your family album. </p><p>By combining the complex science of DNA testing and the data riches uncovered by the Human Genome Project into an accessible, relatively <a href="http://www.ancestry.com/cs/offers/subscribe?sub=1">inexpensive</a> self-testing kit, the genetic heritage industry has created an ingenious product: a consumer must-have that tickles one of the deepest, most ancient and potent of human wishes. This wish is not, as it happens, to have scientific proof of your genetic heritage. The beguiling promise that these ancestry kits offer is the possibility that you just might be someone else.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/12/dna-test-surprises-exactly-who-i-thought">Continue reading...</a>GeneticsBiologyScienceSat, 12 Nov 2016 13:00:50 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/12/dna-test-surprises-exactly-who-i-thoughtPhotograph: Deco / Alamy/AlamyPhotograph: Deco / Alamy/AlamySamantha Gillison2016-11-12T13:00:50ZFacing my fear: I'm a hopeless extrovert, and I adopted a nonverbal child | Amy Whipplehttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/11/extrovert-adopted-nonverbal-child-fear
<p>I didn’t realize when I opened my home and my heart that I’d also be opening myself to the type of silence I’d spent the rest of my life avoiding</p><p>Once upon a time, several lifetimes ago, I had the hangout apartment. If you were bored or lonely or stoned-and-just-happening-to-be-walking-by, you could appear at my door and be welcomed.</p><p>Once upon a time, fewer lifetimes go, I had the party apartment. If a group gathered, you could appear at my door and be welcomed.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/11/extrovert-adopted-nonverbal-child-fear">Continue reading...</a>Parents and parentingFamilyDisabilityChildrenFri, 11 Nov 2016 12:00:19 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/11/extrovert-adopted-nonverbal-child-fearPhotograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyAmy Whipple2016-11-11T12:00:19ZI didn't protest during the presidential race. I will now | Yuko Kodamahttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/10/protest-trump-tower-leader
<p>I joined the protesters outside Trump Tower on Wednesday night because I don’t want to live in a country whose leader wants to roll back our rights</p><p>I woke up on 9 November in a state of shock and disbelief. As I tried to go about my day, I found myself suddenly crying when the reality of a Donald Trump presidency started to set in. Thoughts of gay marriage being overturned, Muslims getting humiliated for their beliefs, his denial of climate change, his sexist and misogynistic language permeating our society made me sick to my stomach.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/nov/10/anti-trump-protests-election-president-new-york-chicago">Tens of thousands of post-election protesters plan further action across US</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/10/protest-trump-tower-leader">Continue reading...</a>ProtestDonald TrumpUS newsThu, 10 Nov 2016 19:49:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/10/protest-trump-tower-leaderPhotograph: Erik/Pacific/Barcroft ImagesPhotograph: Erik/Pacific/Barcroft ImagesYuko Kodama2016-11-10T19:49:00ZMy violent father drove me straight into America's arms | Anonymoushttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/08/violent-father-drove-me-into-americas-arms-us-immigration
<p>After he flew into a vicious rage during a family holiday, I knew I needed to get away for good. My mother helped me flee India and start a new life abroad</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/22/tell-us-how-you-got-here">Tell us how you got here: share your stories of immigration</a> </p><p>One summer morning when I was 17, I begged my mother to get me out of India – where I was born – and out of my helpless situation. We were on a family holiday in Jaipur and my father had gone into another one of his viciously violent rages the day before. We had all had a sleepless night. It wasn’t the first time: we had gone through this so many times before. I don’t know why it was this time that made me snap. Something about the pink city of royals triggered a desperation in me that I didn’t know existed.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/08/violent-father-drove-me-into-americas-arms-us-immigration">Continue reading...</a>Domestic violenceFamilyUS immigrationTue, 08 Nov 2016 14:00:16 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/08/violent-father-drove-me-into-americas-arms-us-immigrationPhotograph: Johner Images / Alamy/AlamyPhotograph: Johner Images / Alamy/AlamyAnonymous2016-11-08T14:00:16ZThe scariest thing about marriage? Coming clean about my debt | Allison Landahttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/07/marriage-couple-finances-debt-repayments
<p>My husband-to-be insisted on finding out everything I owed. And then he took the debt upon himself </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jun/06/tell-us-about-your-life-in-the-red-how-do-you-survive-with-debt">Tell us about your life in the red: how do you survive with debt?</a> </p><p>Debt: $73,000<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/07/marriage-couple-finances-debt-repayments">Continue reading...</a>MoneyRelationshipsMarriageFamilyLife and styleMon, 07 Nov 2016 12:00:44 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/07/marriage-couple-finances-debt-repaymentsPhotograph: Victoria Jones/PAPhotograph: Victoria Jones/PAAllison Landa2016-11-07T12:00:44ZDear Scotus, please don't discriminate against our vulnerable trans children | Emily Wedickhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/06/supreme-court-gloucester-trans-children-school-bathroom-safety
<p>We are concerned that the US supreme court will hear a case about which bathrooms trans kids can use. Our daughters and sons’ safety is in the balance</p><p>Last week, the US supreme court announced it will hear the transgender bathroom rights case, GG v Gloucester County School Board. Gavin Grimm, a trans senior at Gloucester high school in Virginia, is fighting for his right to use the boys’ bathroom at school, and the school district is appealing to the highest court in the country to keep him out. </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/law/2016/oct/28/transgender-bathroom-virginia-supreme-court-gavin-grimm">US supreme court to rule if transgender teen can use boys' bathroom</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/06/supreme-court-gloucester-trans-children-school-bathroom-safety">Continue reading...</a>TransgenderUS supreme courtLawSocietySun, 06 Nov 2016 13:00:16 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/06/supreme-court-gloucester-trans-children-school-bathroom-safetyPhotograph: Steve Helber/APPhotograph: Steve Helber/APEmily Wedick2016-11-06T13:00:16ZI spent years chasing perfection. Then I decided to embrace messiness | Kim Abrahamhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/04/perfection-wife-mother-struggle-embrace-taking-chances
<p>Trying to live out my upbringing as the perfect wife and mother left me sick, broke and alone. What if I tried all that I’d been afraid of instead?</p><p>Growing up in a mentally ill, violent, addiction-riddled home with Catholicism lurking, I was filled with fear. I never learned to look to myself for an opinion, but to monitor the emotions of others to get a sense of how I was doing. Needless to say, this was exhausting and overwhelming.<br></p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/25/tell-us-about-a-time-you-faced-your-fear">Tell us about a time you faced your fear</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/04/perfection-wife-mother-struggle-embrace-taking-chances">Continue reading...</a>Mental healthYogaFamilyFri, 04 Nov 2016 13:01:53 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/04/perfection-wife-mother-struggle-embrace-taking-chancesPhotograph: Hero Images/Getty Images/Hero ImagesPhotograph: Hero Images/Getty Images/Hero ImagesKim Abraham2016-11-04T13:01:53ZIn the UK, I am working-class. But I said goodbye to that identity in America | Eliot Bamfordhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/01/uk-class-identity-america-customs-socioeconomic-divide
<p>I was lost when I learned that the customs, references, and, most significantly, attitudes of the British class system did not translate across the pond</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/22/tell-us-how-you-got-here">Tell us how you got here: share your stories of immigration</a> </p><p>“And where are you from?” is one of the hardest questions I have to answer on a regular basis. Depending on my mood, I can handle it in many different ways. I usually say “I’m from England, but I’ve lived here for 18 years now”. Recently, I’ve added that I became an American citizen three years ago. I just want them to know I am an equal here. <br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/01/uk-class-identity-america-customs-socioeconomic-divide">Continue reading...</a>US immigrationTue, 01 Nov 2016 11:30:05 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/01/uk-class-identity-america-customs-socioeconomic-dividePhotograph: Martin Godwin for the GuardianPhotograph: Martin Godwin for the GuardianEliot Bamford2016-11-01T11:30:05ZFacing my fear: I was scared of being laughed out of the gym | David Fergusonhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/28/facing-my-fear-gym-membership-humiliation-health-workouts
<p>Since adolescence, I associated exercise with the humiliation I felt as a teenager in PE. But I learned that everyone focuses on themselves, not those around them</p><p>Did I ever tell you that Frank Thomas was in my high school physical education class? Yes, that <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/thomafr04.shtml">Frank Thomas</a>, the major league first baseman known as “The Big Hurt”. Every time we’d play baseball in fourth period and Frank would come up to bat, everybody in the outfield would start walking backwards, because when Frank hit the ball, it was always going over the fence and into the parking lot of the housing projects next to the school.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/25/tell-us-about-a-time-you-faced-your-fear">Tell us about a time you faced your fear</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/28/facing-my-fear-gym-membership-humiliation-health-workouts">Continue reading...</a>FitnessLife and styleFri, 28 Oct 2016 15:15:55 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/28/facing-my-fear-gym-membership-humiliation-health-workoutsPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoDavid Ferguson2016-10-28T15:15:55ZI'm on trial for giving water to thirsty pigs. If they were dogs, I would be a hero | Anita Krajnchttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/27/animal-welfare-water-thirsty-pigs-dogs
<p>Pigs are smart, loyal, funny creatures, and their suffering should affect us as much as humans or pets in need do</p><p>On a scorching hot day in June 2015, I gave water to thirsty pigs on board a transport truck headed for the slaughterhouse. As the (now famous) <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/nov/30/canada-woman-10-years-prison-for-giving-pigs-water">video</a> of the incident shows, the driver jumped out of the cab, telling me to stop. I replied with a reference to the Bible: “Jesus said, ‘If [they] are thirsty, give them water.’”</p><p>The driver shouted back, “These are not humans, you dumb frickin’ broad!”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/27/animal-welfare-water-thirsty-pigs-dogs">Continue reading...</a>CanadaAnimal welfareAnimalsAmericasThu, 27 Oct 2016 13:48:39 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/27/animal-welfare-water-thirsty-pigs-dogsPhotograph: Michael Probst/APPhotograph: Michael Probst/APAnita Krajnc2016-10-27T13:48:39ZOur church's Black Lives Matter banner was torn down – now we know why | Ana Levy-Lyonshttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/26/black-lives-matter-church-banner-police
<p>A ‘Blue Lives Matter’ sign appeared instead. Yes, police officers have the right to do their jobs in safety. But the comparison is false, and here’s why</p><p>Last winter First Unitarian Congregational Society in Brooklyn, where I serve as senior minister, voted to hang a Black Lives Matter banner outside our building. Shortly after we hung the banner it mysteriously disappeared. We replaced it and the replacement disappeared as well. This kept happening. For months the thief was silent; there was no inkling of motive. Every Monday we would post a banner or sign, and every Sunday night, it would be removed. Then, last week, we found something new: next to the Black Lives Matter sign appeared a sign that read: “Blue Lives Matter.”</p><p>In the history of oppressed groups demanding equality, an equivalent of the 'Blue Lives Matter' sign goes up every time</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/26/black-lives-matter-church-banner-police">Continue reading...</a>Black Lives Matter movementReligionWorld newsUS newsUS politicsUS policingWed, 26 Oct 2016 16:23:05 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/26/black-lives-matter-church-banner-policePhotograph: Jae S. Lee/APPhotograph: Jae S. Lee/APAna Levy-Lyons2016-10-26T16:23:05ZMy family fled Vietnam for America. It took 17 years for us to be reunited | Diep N Vuonghttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/25/vietnam-boat-people-refugees-america-reunited
<p>The pain of being split up without knowing whether we would be together again was immense. I don’t think we’ve ever healed from that</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/22/tell-us-how-you-got-here">Tell us how you got here: share your stories of immigration</a> </p><p>I came to America as a 16-year-old boat person from Vietnam in 1980. When we escaped, we were picked up by an oil exploration boat and then brought to a Singapore refugee camp. We stayed there for two months and took a plane to America. Before that, I grew up in Saigon. The aftermath of the war left us stranded. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/25/vietnam-boat-people-refugees-america-reunited">Continue reading...</a>RefugeesTue, 25 Oct 2016 11:00:21 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/25/vietnam-boat-people-refugees-america-reunitedPhotograph: Express Newspapers/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Express Newspapers/Getty ImagesDiep N Vuong2016-10-25T11:00:21ZFor freelancers like me, debt is a constant companion | Michael Luongohttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/24/freelancers-debt-paid-for-work
<p>We never take for granted that our work will see the light of day. Or that we will be paid</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jun/06/tell-us-about-your-life-in-the-red-how-do-you-survive-with-debt">Tell us about your life in the red: how do you survive with debt?</a> </p><p><strong>Debt</strong>: $45,000<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/24/freelancers-debt-paid-for-work">Continue reading...</a>US work & careersUS personal financeMoneyMon, 24 Oct 2016 11:00:21 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/24/freelancers-debt-paid-for-workPhotograph: ERIC VIDAL/REX FEATURESPhotograph: ERIC VIDAL/REX FEATURESMichael Luongo2016-10-24T11:00:21ZIt turns out losing online friends feels as bad as the death of 'real life' ones | David Fergusonhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/22/losing-online-friends-same-as-real-life-relationships
<p>Last week, I traveled to say goodbye to a close friend I’d never met in person. These relationships might not sound serious, but they are deep and real</p><p>“So, what are you headed to Texas for?” asked the woman in the airport lounge last week.</p><p>“Well, I’ve got this friend,” I said, and took a deep breath. “We’ve never met, but we were online coworkers for a few years. We talked every day. And now he’s really sick.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/22/losing-online-friends-same-as-real-life-relationships">Continue reading...</a>InternetTechnologyWorld newsUS newsSat, 22 Oct 2016 11:00:15 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/oct/22/losing-online-friends-same-as-real-life-relationshipsPhotograph: Mike Ngo Photography/wwwintechchat.comPhotograph: Mike Ngo Photography/wwwintechchat.comDavid Ferguson2016-10-22T11:00:15ZWhy immigration is a feminist issue – What would a feminist do? podcasthttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/oct/29/why-immigration-is-a-feminist-issue-what-would-a-feminist-do-podcast
<p>This week on the podcast, host Jessica Valenti speaks with Hillary Clinton’s Latino outreach director about the realities of being undocumented and female</p><p>On this latest episode of <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/what-would-feminist-do-guardian/id1094777126?mt=2">What would a feminist do?</a> we talk with <a href="http://www.attorneypenn.com/lorella-praeli/">Lorella Praeli, Hillary Clinton’s Latino outreach director</a> and <a href="https://napawf.org/about/staff/">Miriam Yeung, Executive Director of the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum</a> about how immigrant women are treated.</p><p>The conversation explores the hazards of being undocumented and accessing safe reproductive care, the reality of domestic abuse and the danger of sexual assault. We delve into the myths surrounding immigration and identify racist rhetoric like “anchor babies” and how anti-migrant policy treats women’s bodies as a threat to the nation.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/oct/29/why-immigration-is-a-feminist-issue-what-would-a-feminist-do-podcast">Continue reading...</a>FeminismWomenHillary ClintonMigrationSat, 29 Oct 2016 12:00:19 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/oct/29/why-immigration-is-a-feminist-issue-what-would-a-feminist-do-podcastPhotograph: Louisa Gouliamaki/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Louisa Gouliamaki/AFP/Getty ImagesHosted by Jessica Valenti and produced by Maggie Freleng2016-10-29T12:00:19ZWhen women's rights meet botox – What would a feminist do?https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/oct/15/when-womens-rights-meet-botox-what-would-a-feminist-do
<p>This week, Jessica Valenti sits down with Dana Berkowitz, author of Botox Nation, to talk about the aging process and the choices facing modern women</p><p>As a society, we are obsessed with youth. Thanks to advances in medical science, there are new procedures popping up every day marketed to women to improve their appearance. While we haven’t yet found the fountain of youth, we have discovered Botox, a de-wrinkling neurotoxin injected millions of times each year, mostly among women. </p><p>But why is this particular procedure so appealing?</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/oct/15/when-womens-rights-meet-botox-what-would-a-feminist-do">Continue reading...</a>FeminismAgeingHealth & wellbeingSat, 15 Oct 2016 13:27:04 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/oct/15/when-womens-rights-meet-botox-what-would-a-feminist-doPhotograph: Cultura RM Exclusive/Liam Norris/Getty Images/Cultura ExclusivePhotograph: Cultura RM Exclusive/Liam Norris/Getty Images/Cultura ExclusiveHosted by Jessica Valenti. Produced by Maggie Freleng2016-10-15T13:27:04ZThe buying and selling of feminism – What would a feminist do?https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/oct/03/the-buying-and-selling-of-feminism-what-would-a-feminist-do
<p>Feminism is everywhere – even Nike and Sarah Palin have jumped on the bandwagon. With author Andi Zeisler, we explore ‘marketplace feminism’</p><p><strong>Subscribe via <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/what-would-a-feminist-do/id1094777126?mt=2">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://audioboom.com/channel/what-would-a-feminist-do">Audioboom</a>, <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/the_guardian/">Mixcloud</a>, <a href="https://soundcloud.com/the_guardians_what_would_a_feminist_do">Soundcloud</a>, <a href="https://www.acast.com/what-would-a-feminist-do">Acast</a>, <a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/guardianuk/what-would-a-feminist-do">Stitcher </a></strong></p><p>A few weeks ago, we touched on feminism becoming “mainstream.” In this episode, we take a much deeper dive into the issues of buying, selling, branding and consumerism around feminism.<br>Host Jessica Valenti is joined by Andi Zeisler, co-founder of <a href="https://bitchmedia.org/">Bitch Media</a> and author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Were-Feminists-Once-CoverGirl%C2%AE-Political/dp/1610395891">We Were Feminists Once: From Riot Grrrl to CoverGirl, the Buying and Selling of a Political Movement.</a><br>We explore the progression of so-called “marketplace feminism.” From feminine cigarettes to deodorants preparing women to ask for job raises, what does it mean when a political movement seems more like another consumer choice?</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/oct/03/the-buying-and-selling-of-feminism-what-would-a-feminist-do">Continue reading...</a>WomenAdvertisingFeminismMon, 03 Oct 2016 12:24:57 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/oct/03/the-buying-and-selling-of-feminism-what-would-a-feminist-doPhotograph: Dove/PAPhotograph: Dove/PAHosted by Jessica Valenti. Produced by Maggie Freleng2016-10-03T12:24:57ZPrincesses, pink and 'girly' culture – What would a feminist do? podcasthttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/sep/17/feminism-girls-toys-pink-jessica-valenti-podcast
<p>Girls have not always been pink and boys have not always been blue. This week, Jessica Valenti is joined by Peggy Orenstein to discuss how to better raise kids</p><p><strong>Subscribe via <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/what-would-a-feminist-do/id1094777126?mt=2">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://audioboom.com/channel/what-would-a-feminist-do">Audioboom</a>, <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/the_guardian/">Mixcloud</a>, <a href="https://soundcloud.com/the_guardians_what_would_a_feminist_do">Soundcloud</a>, <a href="https://www.acast.com/what-would-a-feminist-do">Acast</a>, <a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/guardianuk/what-would-a-feminist-do">Stitcher</a></strong></p><p>Walking down an aisle in any toy store, it would seem that the way children play should be broken down by gender: pink and glitter for girls, blue and superheroes for boys. But has it always been this way?</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/sep/17/feminism-girls-toys-pink-jessica-valenti-podcast">Continue reading...</a>FeminismWomenChildrenLife and styleParents and parentingFamilySat, 17 Sep 2016 12:00:48 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/sep/17/feminism-girls-toys-pink-jessica-valenti-podcastPhotograph: John Macdougall/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: John Macdougall/AFP/Getty ImagesHosted by Jessica Valenti. Produced by Maggie Freleng2016-09-17T12:00:48ZChoosing to live child-free – What would a feminist do? podcasthttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/sep/03/jessica-valenti-what-would-a-feminist-do-children-motherhood-podcast
<p>On this episode, Guardian columnist Jessica Valenti talks with authors Meghan Daum and Danielle Henderson about how society views women without children</p><p><strong>Subscribe via <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/what-would-a-feminist-do/id1094777126?mt=2">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://audioboom.com/channel/what-would-a-feminist-do">Audioboom</a>, <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/the_guardian/">Mixcloud</a>, <a href="https://soundcloud.com/the_guardians_what_would_a_feminist_do">Soundcloud</a>, <a href="https://www.acast.com/what-would-a-feminist-do">Acast</a>, <a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/guardianuk/what-would-a-feminist-do">Stitcher</a></strong></p><p>This week, host Jessica Valenti talks about the choice to live without having children – and the stigma women face in making that decision.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/sep/03/jessica-valenti-what-would-a-feminist-do-children-motherhood-podcast">Continue reading...</a>WomenChildrenLife and styleSocietySat, 03 Sep 2016 12:00:31 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/sep/03/jessica-valenti-what-would-a-feminist-do-children-motherhood-podcastPhotograph: Floresco Productions/Getty Images/Cultura RFPhotograph: Floresco Productions/Getty Images/Cultura RFHosted by Jessica Valenti. Produced by Maggie Freleng2016-09-03T12:00:31ZCan feminism be bought and sold? Share your perspectivehttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/may/19/podcast-jessica-valenti-feminist-submit-experiences-questions
<p>Jessica Valenti’s next What would a feminist do? podcast tackles the buying, selling and branding of feminism. Put your questions to author Andi Zeisler</p><p>Each week on the Guardian’s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/series/what-would-a-feminist-do">What would a feminist do?</a> podcast, host Jessica Valenti tackles a different issue that women face today.</p><p>Coming up, we’re talking about the buying, selling and branding of feminism. We’ll be speaking with <a href="https://twitter.com/andizeisler?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor">Andi Zeisler</a> about her new book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Were-Feminists-Once-CoverGirl%C2%AE-Political/dp/1610395891">We Were Feminists Once: From Riot Grrrl to CoverGirl, the Buying and Selling of a Political Movement.</a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/may/19/podcast-jessica-valenti-feminist-submit-experiences-questions">Continue reading...</a>WomenLife and styleCultureMediaDigital mediaThu, 25 Aug 2016 15:26:06 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/may/19/podcast-jessica-valenti-feminist-submit-experiences-questionsIllustration: EhleIllustration: EhleGuardian staff2016-08-25T15:26:06ZDealing with workplace sexism – What would a feminist do? – podcasthttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/aug/20/workplace-sexism-jessica-valenti-podcast-feminism
<p>This week, Jessica Valenti is joined by Feminist Fight Club author Jessica Bennett to discuss how to navigate difficult employers and “bropropriator” colleagues</p><p><strong>Subscribe via <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/what-would-a-feminist-do/id1094777126?mt=2">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://audioboom.com/channel/what-would-a-feminist-do">Audioboom</a>, <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/the_guardian/">Mixcloud</a>, <a href="https://soundcloud.com/the_guardians_what_would_a_feminist_do">Soundcloud</a>, <a href="https://www.acast.com/what-would-a-feminist-do">Acast</a>, <a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/guardianuk/what-would-a-feminist-do">Stitcher</a></strong></p><p>While women have been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/may/18/womens-rights-happiness-wellbeing-gender-gap">gaining rights in the past decades</a>, workplace <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/women-in-leadership/2016/may/12/enforcing-high-heels-in-the-office-is-the-height-of-workplace-sexism">sexism still exists in many insidious forms</a>. Sexism in the workplace is arguably even more difficult to navigate today because it is often subtle and difficult to pinpoint.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/aug/20/workplace-sexism-jessica-valenti-podcast-feminism">Continue reading...</a>FeminismUS work & careersWomenSat, 20 Aug 2016 12:00:03 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/aug/20/workplace-sexism-jessica-valenti-podcast-feminismPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoHosted by Jessica Valenti. Produced by Maggie Freleng2016-08-20T12:00:03ZSaying the F-word – What would a feminist do? podcasthttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/aug/06/feminism-jessica-valenti-podcast
<p>How do you feel about the word ‘feminist’? On this week’s episode, we dissect our reactions to the F-word</p><p><strong>Subscribe via <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/what-would-a-feminist-do/id1094777126?mt=2">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://audioboom.com/channel/what-would-a-feminist-do">Audioboom</a>, <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/the_guardian/">Mixcloud</a>, <a href="https://soundcloud.com/the_guardians_what_would_a_feminist_do">Soundcloud</a>, <a href="https://www.acast.com/what-would-a-feminist-do">Acast</a>, <a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/guardianuk/what-would-a-feminist-do">Stitcher</a></strong></p><p>This week, host Jessica Valenti asks: do you call yourself a feminist? Whether you do or don’t, the word evokes thoughts or feelings based on preconceived notions of what feminism means.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/aug/06/feminism-jessica-valenti-podcast">Continue reading...</a>FeminismWomenSat, 06 Aug 2016 12:00:06 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/aug/06/feminism-jessica-valenti-podcastPhotograph: Getty ImagesPhotograph: Getty ImagesHosted by Jessica Valenti. Produced by Maggie Freleng2016-08-06T12:00:06ZTalking about sexual violence with men – What would a feminist do? podcasthttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/jul/23/feminism-sexual-violence-brock-turner-valenti-mtv
<p>How we can better engage men to prevent gender-based violence? Jessica Valenti talks with Jamil Smith of MTV News and Dr Dorothy Edwards of Green Dot, etc.</p><p><strong>Subscribe via <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/what-would-a-feminist-do/id1094777126?mt=2">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://audioboom.com/channel/what-would-a-feminist-do">Audioboom</a>, <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/the_guardian/">Mixcloud</a>, <a href="https://soundcloud.com/the_guardians_what_would_a_feminist_do">Soundcloud</a>, <a href="https://www.acast.com/what-would-a-feminist-do">Acast</a>, <a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/guardianuk/what-would-a-feminist-do">Stitcher</a></strong></p><p>This week, host Jessica Valenti asks: how we can better engage men and boys to prevent gender-based violence? Why is it that sexual violence is still, in 2016, talked about as a women’s issue?</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/jul/23/feminism-sexual-violence-brock-turner-valenti-mtv">Continue reading...</a>PodcastingSexualityFeminismRape and sexual assaultSat, 23 Jul 2016 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/jul/23/feminism-sexual-violence-brock-turner-valenti-mtvPhotograph: Gabrielle Lurie/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Gabrielle Lurie/AFP/Getty ImagesHosted by Jessica Valenti, produced by Maggie Freleng2016-07-23T13:00:00ZKeep your last name or take your spouse’s – What would a feminist do? podcasthttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/jun/25/change-last-name-marriage-feminist-podcast
<p>Only 7% of American women keep their last names when marrying. Columnist Jessica Valenti and guest Laurie Scheuble discuss why that is</p><p><strong>Subscribe via <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/what-would-a-feminist-do/id1094777126?mt=2">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://audioboom.com/channel/what-would-a-feminist-do">Audioboom</a>, <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/the_guardian/">Mixcloud</a>, <a href="https://soundcloud.com/the_guardians_what_would_a_feminist_do">Soundcloud</a>, <a href="https://www.acast.com/what-would-a-feminist-do">Acast</a>, <a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/guardianuk/what-would-a-feminist-do">Stitcher</a></strong></p><p>This week, host Jessica Valenti asks why <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/mar/07/women-stop-changing-your-name-when-married">so few American women decide to keep their names</a> when marrying and where the tradition comes from.<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/jun/25/change-last-name-marriage-feminist-podcast">Continue reading...</a>FeminismWedding dressesWedding, honeymoon and stag tripsWeddingsMarriageWomenSat, 25 Jun 2016 12:00:13 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/audio/2016/jun/25/change-last-name-marriage-feminist-podcastPhotograph: Xinhua / Barcroft ImagesPhotograph: Xinhua / Barcroft ImagesHosted by Jessica Valenti. Produced by Karen Shakerdge2016-06-25T12:00:13ZThe Guardian view on Boris Johnson: plain speaking without a purpose | Editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/the-guardian-view-on-boris-johnson-plain-speaking-without-a-purpose
Bluntness can be valuable, but foreign secretaries should deploy it for a reason and not on a whim<p>A foreign secretary, Harold Macmillan observed, is forever poised between cliche and indiscretion. It should be no surprise that Boris Johnson – who is, as a better diplomat might say, the possessor of a lively mind – tilts persistently <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/16/the-guardian-view-on-boris-johnson-he-is-causing-too-much-needless-chaos" title="">toward the latter</a>. His avoidance of the circumlocutions favoured by most politicians led to a popular misconception that he is a straight shooter. It would be more accurate to say that he frequently shoots from the hip or goes off half-cocked, as his public <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2016/dec/07/boris-johnson-accuses-saudi-arabia-of-twisting-and-abusing-islam" title="">criticism of Saudi Arabia</a>, revealed by the Guardian, shows. When he was a columnist, MP or mayor of London his remarks could be <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2016/jul/14/boris-johnson-life-xenophobic-gaffes" title="">embarrassing and offensive</a>; now that he is Britain’s top diplomat the potential consequences are far graver. As shadow Brexit secretary Keir Starmer observed this week, those watching from Brussels “are not particularly amused by jokes about prosecco [or] references to ‘cake and eat it’. They want a professional, constructive set of negotiations.”</p><p>Though diplomacy has many registers it is often associated with a delicacy that may seem overly cautious at best, hypocritical at worst, and ridiculous either way. (Even when diplomats are blunt they call it being “honest”, “candid” or “forthright”.) But as Mr Macmillan’s remark reminds us, there is a reason why foreign secretaries usually speak with care, even when it frustrates them. First, some messages are delivered privately either because that is more effective or to avoid offending. Riyadh already knows that, while the UK supports the Saudi-led coalition formed to back the ousted president Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, it has concerns about airstrikes which have repeatedly hit civilians, schools and hospitals. It also knows that the UK considers its other interests in the region more important. Second, the ability of people with very different cultures, histories, priorities and interests to engage with each other on complex and fraught issues depends upon a shared language. A more honest language might well be better; but what matters most is that it is consistent, so that diplomats understand each other. When a foreign secretary chooses between muted or harsh criticism, or between dropping a word in someone’s ear and calling them out in a speech, such calculations are – or should be – part of the message. To veer from one register&nbsp;to another haphazardly leads to confusion or contempt.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/the-guardian-view-on-boris-johnson-plain-speaking-without-a-purpose">Continue reading...</a>Boris JohnsonPoliticsSaudi ArabiaMiddle East and North AfricaYemenForeign policyTheresa MayThu, 08 Dec 2016 19:55:07 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/08/the-guardian-view-on-boris-johnson-plain-speaking-without-a-purposePhotograph: Stefan Wermuth/PAPhotograph: Stefan Wermuth/PAEditorial2016-12-08T19:55:07ZThe Guardian view on Amazon grocery stores: the cost of convenience | Editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/the-guardian-view-on-amazon-grocery-stores-the-cost-of-convenience
A checkout-free shop may save time, but efficiency is not the only good<p>Amazon has made convenience king, offering shopping from your workplace, armchair, or even while commuting with a single click and delivery to your door, perhaps within the hour. Now it is trialling <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2016/dec/05/amazon-go-store-seattle-checkouts-account" title="">a queue-less, cashier-less grocery store</a>. Sensors will track which items customers pick up and bill their account as they walk out. The benefit to those in a rush is obvious – but it means another lost opportunity for social contact, in the queue with fellow shoppers, with cashiers or the staff overseeing erratic self-checkouts. Such connections, fleeting as they are, can be life-saving for the chronically lonely and good for others too, reminding us that polite interaction matters as much as getting what we want this second. About a million older people go a month <a href="http://www.ageuk.org.uk/get-involved/campaign/loneliness-campaign/" title="">without speaking to a friend, neighbour or relative</a>, and loneliness is linked to mental and <a href="http://heart.bmj.com/content/early/2016/03/15/heartjnl-2015-308790" title="">physical health problems</a>, imposing a broader social and economic strain. Researchers at the University of Hertfordshire this month suggested <a href="http://tinyurl.com/jsechwy" title="">introducing checkout “slow lanes”</a> for older people who may feel isolated. Amazon’s approach may make better business sense by appealing to our impatience, but it comes at a human cost.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/the-guardian-view-on-amazon-grocery-stores-the-cost-of-convenience">Continue reading...</a>Amazon.comInternetE-commerceTechnologyRetail industryBusinessUS newsWorld newsOlder peopleSocietyCommunitiesTue, 06 Dec 2016 18:42:45 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/06/the-guardian-view-on-amazon-grocery-stores-the-cost-of-conveniencePhotograph: Jason Redmond/ReutersPhotograph: Jason Redmond/ReutersEditorial2016-12-06T18:42:45ZThe Guardian view on European politics: Italy’s turn on the brink | Editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/the-guardian-view-on-european-politics-italys-turn-on-the-brink
France and Austria may be shifting to the right in presidential elections, but the referendum in Italy is the immediate challenge for Italy and the eurozone<p>The surprise would have been if François Hollande had decided to run for a second term in 2017. Even so, the socialist president of France’s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/01/francois-hollande-not-seek-second-term-president-france" title="">announcement</a> on Thursday that he will not run again in the spring is another milestone in Europe’s political crisis. This weekend, attention will shift to Italy, which holds its much-anticipated constitutional referendum on Sunday, as well as to Austria, where the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/02/tyrolian-villages-divided-as-austria-goes-back-to-the-polls" title="">presidential election re-run</a> may result in Europe’s first far-right head of state since 1945. The sense that the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/02/year-of-electoral-tests-may-end-european-union-as-we-know-it" title="">old order is under serial threat</a> across large parts of Europe is palpable.</p><p>Mr Hollande’s unpopularity and withdrawal both stem from his manifest inability to provide an effective route out of the aftermath of the financial crisis, as well as fears exacerbated by migration and terror attacks. France’s growth is still sluggish at best, while unemployment, is still stuck at about 10%. Yet he has no clear successor. Whoever emerges with the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/02/frances-pm-manuel-valls-expected-to-launch-presidential-bid" title="">socialist nomination</a> after planned primaries in January will struggle to make it into the second round of next year’s election, probably leaving François Fillon and Marine Le Pen to fight it out on the right. Mr Hollande has been a personally undistinguished president, but the crisis is not his alone. The&nbsp;French left as a whole is divided and weak, bereft of leaders, confidence and ideas for tackling France’s social divisions.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/the-guardian-view-on-european-politics-italys-turn-on-the-brink">Continue reading...</a>EuropeItalyMatteo RenziEuropean UnionWorld newsFrançois HollandeFrançois FillonAustriaFri, 02 Dec 2016 19:00:10 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/02/the-guardian-view-on-european-politics-italys-turn-on-the-brinkPhotograph: Giuseppe Lami/EPAPhotograph: Giuseppe Lami/EPAEditorial2016-12-02T19:00:10ZThe Guardian view on Aleppo: the west’s grim failure | Editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/the-guardian-view-on-aleppo-the-wests-grim-failure
As Assad’s forces, backed by the Russians, make their final move on Syria’s second city, the world can only count the cost of a humanitarian and military disaster it failed to stop<p>Exhausted parents clutching terrified children in their arms, young people pushing the old in makeshift carts or wheelchairs and families pulling overstuffed suitcases: the scenes from east Aleppo are those of a new exodus. As Syrian government forces move on the last urban stronghold of the anti-Assad opposition, helped by Shia militias from Iraq, Iran and Hezbollah, hundreds of men have been rounded up and disappeared. Their relatives, as well as human rights activists, fear they may already be dead, or have become victims of Assad’s network of jails and torture centres where thousands have been&nbsp;murdered.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/nov/29/residents-of-east-aleppo-fear-for-500-men-seized-by-forces-loyal-to-assad">Aleppo families fear for 500 men seized by forces loyal to Assad</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/the-guardian-view-on-aleppo-the-wests-grim-failure">Continue reading...</a>AleppoSyriaMiddle East and North AfricaWorld newsRussiaEuropeUnited NationsIslamic StateForeign policyUS foreign policyWed, 30 Nov 2016 19:53:33 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/30/the-guardian-view-on-aleppo-the-wests-grim-failurePhotograph: George Ourfalian/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: George Ourfalian/AFP/Getty ImagesEditorial2016-11-30T19:53:33ZThe Guardian view on world chess rivalries: no return to the cold war | Editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/the-guardian-view-on-world-chess-rivalries-no-return-to-the-cold-war
It is tempting to present the Carlsen-Karjakin tussle in world chess championship as a clash between east and west. Thankfully times have changed<p>From Wednesday night chess lovers can finally get some sleep. The world chess championship, which has been gripping chess fans for three weeks, with some games lasting seven hours or more, must be decided in New York on Wednesday. More than two decades ago the Soviet grandmasters <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Chess_Championship_1984" title="">Garry Kasparov and Anatoly Karpov</a> played a match that lasted for more than five months, and even then wasn’t finished, the world governing body decreeing that the players’ health was in danger if the match lasted any longer. Chess today marches to a faster beat. The current world title match between the Norwegian champion Magnus Carlsen and his Russian challenger Sergey Karjakin won’t be such an epic struggle.</p><p>A series of tie-breakers – rapidplay games, blitz games with very short time controls, and even a so-called “Armageddon” game where the player with the disadvantage of the black pieces and less time on the clock only has to draw the game to win the title – will determine who is champion. It is the chess equivalent of a penalty shootout and would have horrified the purist former world champion <a href="http://www.chessgames.com/player/mikhail_botvinnik.html" title="">Mikhail Botvinnik</a>, founder of the Soviet chess system, who, when asked whether he ever played blitz, replied that yes, he had played it once, on a train.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/the-guardian-view-on-world-chess-rivalries-no-return-to-the-cold-war">Continue reading...</a>ChessMagnus CarlsenSportRussiaNorwayUkraineEuropeWorld newsVladimir PutinTue, 29 Nov 2016 19:48:39 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/29/the-guardian-view-on-world-chess-rivalries-no-return-to-the-cold-warPhotograph: Rakke, Morten/NTB scanpixPhotograph: Rakke, Morten/NTB scanpixEditorial2016-11-29T19:48:39ZThe Guardian view on France: Fillon v Le Pen is the wrong contest | Editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/the-guardian-view-on-france-fillon-v-le-pen-is-the-wrong-contest
The shift to the right in western democracies is undeniable. The left shares the blame, in France as elsewhere<p>Across the western democracies, the centre of political gravity shifts erratically but inexorably to the right. Britain’s Brexit vote caused a tilt to the right in Theresa May’s cabinet and has been followed by the election of Donald Trump and a Republican Congress in America. This weekend, Austrians may elect a far-right president, while the centre-left Italian government could fall after this Sunday’s constitutional referendum. In France, meanwhile, the centre-right Republican party has now <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/nov/27/francois-fillon-on-course-to-win-french-primary-to-be-candidate-for-the-right">selected the more conservative contender François Fillon</a> as its presidential candidate in the 2017 contest that could end as a head-to-head <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/nov/27/francois-fillons-victory-creates-strategy-problem-for-marine-le-pen">with the far-right Front National’s Marine Le Pen</a>.</p><p>It is a mistake to treat these developments as simply interchangeable. Every country has its own local political dynamics. Mr Fillon, for example, is routinely depicted as an admirer of Margaret Thatcher – a charge that will be trumpeted by opponents between now and April. But <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/francois-fillon-threat-liberal-values-marine-le-pen-france">his focus on France’s Catholic roots</a> puts him in a long tradition of French conservatism which has no real equivalent in Britain. His politics are not the same as those of Mrs May, who is again sharply different from Mr Trump. The new <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2016/nov/28/paul-nuttall-elected-as-ukip-leader">Ukip leader Paul Nuttall</a>, who took over from Nigel Farage today, is not Britain’s Ms Le Pen either.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/the-guardian-view-on-france-fillon-v-le-pen-is-the-wrong-contest">Continue reading...</a>FranceFrançois FillonMarine Le PenFrançois HollandeJean-Luc MélenchonNicolas SarkozyFrench presidential election 2017The far rightEuropeEU referendum and BrexitWorld newsDonald TrumpMon, 28 Nov 2016 19:20:19 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/the-guardian-view-on-france-fillon-v-le-pen-is-the-wrong-contestPhotograph: Joel Saget/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Joel Saget/AFP/Getty ImagesEditorial2016-11-28T19:20:19ZThe Guardian view on Turkey’s repression: stop this stalemate | Editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/the-guardian-view-on-turkeys-repression-stop-this-stalemate
Post-coup crackdowns in Turkey are wrong in themselves and risk putting relations with Europe in jeopardy<p>For the past four months, Turkey’s leader has subjected his country to sweeping political purges – but there are few signs of an end soon. The new announcement that 6,000 teachers will be reinstated in their jobs after having been suspended is a welcome gesture but does little to reduce the level of tension.</p><p>Since the mid-July failed coup attempt against Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s regime, the president has orchestrated what amounts to a counter-coup. What Mr Erdoğan sees as a clean-up of the Turkish body politic looks like the biggest purge in Turkey’s modern history. More than 125,000 people have been dismissed or suspended and around 40,000 others arrested. <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-38123926" title="">Amnesty says there are “credible reports” of detainees being subjected to “beatings and torture, including rape”</a>. Judges, military personnel and professors have lost their jobs.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/the-guardian-view-on-turkeys-repression-stop-this-stalemate">Continue reading...</a>TurkeyHuman rightsRecep Tayyip ErdoğanMigrationEuropean UnionEuropeAngela MerkelLawIslamic StateKurdsWorld newsMiddle East and North AfricaMon, 28 Nov 2016 19:15:05 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/28/the-guardian-view-on-turkeys-repression-stop-this-stalematePhotograph: Murat Cetinmuhurdar/APPhotograph: Murat Cetinmuhurdar/APEditorial2016-11-28T19:15:05ZThe Guardian view on Fidel Castro: man of history | Editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2016/nov/27/the-guardian-view-on-fidel-castro-man-of-history
Situate the Cuban leader in the political and intellectual setting of 20th-century Latin American anti-colonialism rather than seeing him through the eyes of the 21st century<p>Recovering the figure of Fidel Castro from the legacy of the failures of communism, his own chequered reputation, the hours-long flights of rhetorical bombast and hipster beard is no easy task. One should situate him in the political and intellectual setting of 20th-century Latin American anti-colonialism rather than seeing him through the eyes of the 21st century. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/nov/26/fidel-castro-obituary" title="">Castro’s passing sees the departure of one of the giants of the cold war era</a> and a revolutionary guerilla leader. He must be judged by the conditions that made him possible, but not indulged by them. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/theguardian/2014/jan/08/fidel-castro-cuba-alistair-cooke?CMP=share_btn_tw" title="">He emerged victorious in a battle against a brutal and corrupt US-friendly regime</a> at a time when democracy had yet to reach most of the Caribbean or indeed what we now know of as the developing world. Although his brother Raul assumed presidential powers in 2006 before getting the official title in 2008, modern-day Cuba was built by Fidel Castro. The early years saw him embrace faraway Soviet Union and reject the United States next door, expropriating American assets in the name of his revolution. Castro’s alliance with Moscow brought the world to the brink of nuclear war in 1962. Yet he survived – and thrived on – the brinkmanship, even if the world very nearly did not.</p><p>From there came a series of human rights abuses and restrictive policies that can never be excused or simply explained away as “a product of their time” or a “strategic necessity”. Sham trials saw hundreds of summary executions of political opponents. Despite studying law, the Cuban leader defended such actions claiming “revolutionary justice is not based on legal precepts, but on moral conviction”. Power flowed from the gun and a repressive state pointed weapons inward. Perceived cultural subversion was punished. Even in the 1970s Cuba was imprisoning homosexuals and long-haired hippies. But there also emerged a remarkable system of health care and education, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/poverty-matters/2011/aug/05/cuban-development-model" title="">producing life expectancies and literacy rates only found in far richer nations</a>. Castro’s international reputation was built partly on a foreign policy of supporting other third world struggles that, while not perfect, has certainly been far more impressive than most of the west. <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/cuban-medics-in-haiti-put-the-world-to-shame-2169415.html" title="">In 2010 Havana sent 1,200 medics to fight cholera in Haiti after an earthquake </a>when everyone else had left. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/12/cuba-leads-fights-against-ebola-africa" title="">As Ebola ravaged west Africa, Cuba led aid efforts while the west fretted</a>. Cuba gave shelter to those wanted by Washington. He visited Vietnam in 1973 – two years before the north drove out the US army. Castro never lost his touch for the dramatic: sending an expeditionary force across the Atlantic in 1975 to help save the communist regime of newly independent Angola from a South African invasion. None of this was forgotten. In Africa Castro’s fight against apartheid cast him as a <a href="http://qz.com/846337/cuban-leader-fidel-castro-was-a-liberation-icon-in-africa-and-remained-committed-to-the-continent/" title="">liberation icon</a>. In dealing with US criticism of his relations with Cuba, Nelson Mandela noted the counsel came from “people who supported the apartheid regime these last 40 years. No honourable man or woman could ever accept advice from people who never cared for us at the most difficult times.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2016/nov/27/the-guardian-view-on-fidel-castro-man-of-history">Continue reading...</a>Fidel CastroWorld newsCubaAmericasUS newsObama administrationDonald TrumpSouth AfricaAfricaSun, 27 Nov 2016 19:23:11 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2016/nov/27/the-guardian-view-on-fidel-castro-man-of-historyPhotograph: Pedro Pardo/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Pedro Pardo/AFP/Getty ImagesEditorial2016-11-27T19:23:11ZThe Observer view on corruption, repression and violence threatening fragile democracies | Observer editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/27/observer-view-on-corruption-south-east-asia
The populations of Malaysia, Thailand and Burma are increasingly suffering under their leaders<p>Malaysia, Thailand and Burma are all suffering a backwards slide from the basic standards expected of modern-day representative democracies. While the reasons vary, the results are similar: growing public unrest, increased state repression, negative economic effects, weakened institutions and reputational damage.</p><p>Malaysia vividly exemplifies these phenomena. The former British colony has never been a faultless democracy. The United Malays National Organisation, representing the ethnic Malay majority, has held power since independence in 1957. The mostly non-Muslim, ethnic Chinese and&nbsp;Indian minorities, whose ancestors were shipped in by the British as cheap labour, have suffered historical discrimination, yet this furore has little to do with history, race or religion. It is about probity in government – which appears to be sorely lacking.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/27/observer-view-on-corruption-south-east-asia">Continue reading...</a>MalaysiaAsia PacificWorld newsMyanmarSouth and Central AsiaThailandSun, 27 Nov 2016 00:05:45 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/27/observer-view-on-corruption-south-east-asiaPhotograph: Mohd Rasfan/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Mohd Rasfan/AFP/Getty ImagesObserver editorial2016-11-27T00:05:45ZThe Guardian view on independence for Hong Kong: made in Beijing | Editorialhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/25/the-guardian-view-on-independence-for-hong-kong-made-in-beijing
Instead of dealing with a political problem, China has sought confrontation. Without compromise the situation is likely to get worse before it gets better<p>No one can accuse Chris Patten, Hong Kong’s last colonial governor, of not being prepared to scrap with China to defend liberal values in the territory. <a href="https://www.parliament.uk/biographies/lords/lord-patten-of-barnes/1136" title="">The Conservative peer</a> and chancellor of the University of Oxford took the view – rightly – two decades ago that Hong Kong’s prosperity was underpinned by a free and plural society. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2007/jun/30/comment.china" title="">He pushed for more representative institutions, albeit far too late in Britain’s century-and-a-half tenure in charge</a>. In doing so he earned the enmity of Beijing. Its media organs churned out ever more elaborate descriptions of the governor. A “serpent” and a <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/chinese/trad/hi/newsid_1910000/newsid_1910800/1910806.stm" title="">“wrongdoer who would be condemned for a thousand generations”</a> are among the kinder epithets hurled by mainland propagandists. His elected council was dissolved upon Hong Kong’s handover to&nbsp;the people’s republic in 1997.</p><p>So it is strange now, perhaps, to find Beijing and Lord Patten in agreement over the antics of two pro-independence Hong Kong legislators. Yau Wai-ching, 25, and Sixtus “Baggio” Leung, 30, had <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/nov/15/we-didnt-do-anything-wrong-banned-hong-kong-politician-yau-wai-ching-oath-taking-protest" title="">pledged allegiance to the “Hong Kong nation”</a> and unfurled a banner declaring “Hong Kong is not China” during a swearing-in ceremony earlier this year. In&nbsp;conflating the push for greater democracy with the argument for independence, activists are, in Lord Patten’s words, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/nov/25/chris-patten-hits-out-at-hong-kong-democracy-activists" title="">“dishonest, dishonourable and reckless”</a>. Words that might not go amiss in the editorials of Beijing’s mouthpiece Global Times which mocked “the&nbsp;Hong Kong independence farce”.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/25/the-guardian-view-on-independence-for-hong-kong-made-in-beijing">Continue reading...</a>Hong KongChinaAsia PacificWorld newsForeign policyPoliticsFri, 25 Nov 2016 18:58:19 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/nov/25/the-guardian-view-on-independence-for-hong-kong-made-in-beijingPhotograph: Kin Cheung/APPhotograph: Kin Cheung/APEditorial2016-11-25T18:58:19ZHarry Reid condemns Steve Bannon appointment on Senate floor – as it happenedhttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2016/nov/15/donald-trump-administration-obama-steve-bannon-live
<ul><li>Democratic senator notes hate crimes have spiked since Trump elected</li><li><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/nov/15/donald-trump-transition-team-disarray-adviser-purge">Donald Trump transition team in disarray after key adviser ‘purged’<br></a></li><li>Rudy Giuliani reportedly favorite to be Trump’s secretary of state</li><li><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/nov/15/obama-administration-drone-strikes-donald-trump">Obama will not restrict drone strike ‘playbook’ before Trump takes office</a></li></ul><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2016-11-16T03:35:29.298Z">3.35am <span class="timezone">GMT</span></time> </p><p>Trump has completed his dinner outing, according to the press pool:</p><p>Trump’s motorcade arrived back at Trump Tower at 9:41pm.</p><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Finalists? <a href="https://t.co/Y778KLkAHs">https://t.co/Y778KLkAHs</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2016-11-16T03:32:37.251Z">3.32am <span class="timezone">GMT</span></time> </p><p>@realdonaldtrump is going to be president:</p><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Very organized process taking place as I decide on Cabinet and many other positions. I am the only one who knows who the finalists are!</p><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Finalists? <a href="https://t.co/Y778KLkAHs">https://t.co/Y778KLkAHs</a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2016/nov/15/donald-trump-administration-obama-steve-bannon-live">Continue reading...</a>Donald TrumpUS politicsUS newsWed, 16 Nov 2016 03:35:29 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2016/nov/15/donald-trump-administration-obama-steve-bannon-livePhotograph: Jose Luis Magana/APPhotograph: Jose Luis Magana/APTom McCarthy (now) and Scott Bixby (earlier)2016-11-16T03:35:29ZThe Birth of a Nation: how Nate Parker failed to remake historyhttps://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2016/oct/10/the-birth-of-a-nation-problems-nate-parker
<p>The much-hyped slavery drama, steeped in controversy, has underperformed at the box office – but where did it go wrong?</p><p>In July of this year, a 25-year-old black army veteran, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/jul/09/dallas-shooting-more-details-emerge-about-micah-xavier-johnson">Micah Johnson</a>, drove to a peaceful Black Lives Matter rally in Dallas, got out of his car with an AK-47 and started shooting at white police officers as retribution for the police shootings of black men in Louisiana and Minnesota. It’s the kind of retaliatory violence that white Americans have feared for centuries. The kind that the writer and author <a href="https://mic.com/articles/148602/ta-nehisi-coates-speaks-hard-truths-of-dallas-shooting-and-race-relations-in-the-us">Ta-Nehisi Coates said we should have seen coming</a>. The kind that is depicted in The Birth of a Nation, Nate Parker’s much anticipated and equally maligned slave rebellion film that opened over the weekend. And the kind that, frankly, I’m somewhat astonished we don’t see more often.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2016/oct/08/birth-of-a-nation-movie-opening-night-nate-parker-controversy">New York first-night moviegoers shrug off The Birth of a Nation controversy</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2016/oct/10/the-birth-of-a-nation-problems-nate-parker">Continue reading...</a>The Birth of a NationFilmCultureNate ParkerRace issuesMon, 10 Oct 2016 14:10:20 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2016/oct/10/the-birth-of-a-nation-problems-nate-parkerPhotograph: Jahi Chikwendiu/APPhotograph: Jahi Chikwendiu/APRebecca Carroll2016-10-10T14:10:20ZCan black celebrities shake America out of its racial justice slumber? | Syreeta McFaddenhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jul/28/can-black-celebrities-shake-america-racial-justice
<p>African American stars are using their large platform to demand equal protection of black life in America – just as their forbears did</p><p>Once again, this is turning out to be a summer marked by prominent police killings of innocent black men. Black popular artists in American culture are complicating things for those fans who would prefer to remain silent or choose not to engage in the most significant civil rights issue of our time. These artists are shaking moderates out of complacency and extending our awareness to this crisis – just as their forebears did during the civil rights struggle in the 1960s.</p><p>Black musicians and artists are key partners in dramatizing equality and justice for black citizens. The cynical among us may presume that artists who call for action against systemic, racialized police violence are simply jumping on a cause célèbre – or that their earned privilege no longer affords them the right to be outraged. But that is a selective and ahistorical reading.<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jul/28/can-black-celebrities-shake-america-racial-justice">Continue reading...</a>Race issuesBlack Lives Matter movementThu, 28 Jul 2016 11:30:05 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jul/28/can-black-celebrities-shake-america-racial-justicePhotograph: Matt Slocum/APPhotograph: Matt Slocum/APSyreeta McFadden2016-07-28T11:30:05ZSolitary confinement is 'no touch' torture, and it must be abolished | Chelsea E Manninghttps://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2016/may/02/solitary-confinement-is-solitary-confinement-is-torture-6x9-cells-chelsea-manningno-touch-torture-and-it-must-be-abolished
<p>I spent about nine months in an isolated cell behind a one-way mirror. It was cruel, degrading and inhumane</p><p>Shortly after arriving at a makeshift military jail, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, in May 2010<strong>,</strong> I was placed into the black hole of solitary confinement for the first time. Within two weeks, I was contemplating suicide.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2016/may/02/solitary-confinement-is-solitary-confinement-is-torture-6x9-cells-chelsea-manningno-touch-torture-and-it-must-be-abolished">Continue reading...</a>US prisonsChelsea ManningMon, 02 May 2016 06:00:16 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2016/may/02/solitary-confinement-is-solitary-confinement-is-torture-6x9-cells-chelsea-manningno-touch-torture-and-it-must-be-abolishedPhotograph: Ed ThomasPhotograph: Ed ThomasChelsea E Manning2016-05-02T06:00:16ZThe new side of Sheryl Sandberg is something to celebrate | Emma Brockeshttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/may/18/sheryl-sandberg-facebook-commencement-silicon-valley
<p>In a moving post and a commencement address, the Facebook COO showed how her mind has been broadened. Let’s hope this rubs off on Silicon Valley</p><p>Sheryl Sandberg gave the <a href="http://qz.com/684804/you-are-not-born-with-a-fixed-amount-of-resilience-sheryl-sandbergs-powerful-commencement-speech/">commencement speech</a> at UC Berkeley last weekend, during the course of which she said many stirring things about the future awaiting the class of 2016. She also built on her much-commented upon Mothers’ Day <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheryl/posts/10156819553860177">Facebook post</a>, in which she spoke for the first time about life in the wake of her husband’s death last year. These two elements, the motivational speaking and the personal reflections on grief, combined to do something that has so far eluded Sandberg and the corporate world generally: the acknowledgement that people are human.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/education/2016/may/15/best-commencement-speeches-jill-abramson-neil-gaiman">The best commencement speeches: from Jill Abramson to Neil Gaiman</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/may/18/sheryl-sandberg-facebook-commencement-silicon-valley">Continue reading...</a>TechnologySheryl SandbergFacebookUS newsWorld newsSocial networkingMediaWed, 18 May 2016 17:09:06 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/may/18/sheryl-sandberg-facebook-commencement-silicon-valleyPhotograph: Bloomberg/Bloomberg via Getty ImagesPhotograph: Bloomberg/Bloomberg via Getty ImagesEmma Brockes2016-05-18T17:09:06ZPhyllis Schlafly won some battles, but she lost the war | Jessica Valentihttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/sep/06/phyllis-schlafly-era-issues-feminism-working-women-lgbt
<p>While the conservative crusader helped defeat the ERA, the country has largely embraced the causes she feared most – from working women to LGBT rights</p><p>Phyllis Schlafly believed feminism was a losing battle. The conservative icon, who <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/sep/06/phyllis-schlafly-outspoken-rightwing-activist-has-died-aged-92">died on Monday aged 92</a>, insisted that the movement for gender equality was “<a href="http://www.npr.org/2014/07/21/333582322/phyllis-schlafly-explains-why-feminism-has-made-women-unhappy">a fight with human nature</a>”, and therefore doomed to fail. Women belonged in the home, she believed, men belonged in the workforce and women didn’t need any more rights than the ones they were already afforded.</p><p>But despite Schlafly’s predictions and beliefs, the world she left behind this week is one that largely embraces the issues she most feared. Feminism is more popular than ever, women are in the workforce en masse, LGBT rights are front and center and the country is mostly pro-choice.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/sep/06/phyllis-schlafly-era-issues-feminism-working-women-lgbt">Continue reading...</a>WomenFeminismUS newsTue, 06 Sep 2016 17:05:06 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/sep/06/phyllis-schlafly-era-issues-feminism-working-women-lgbtPhotograph: Seth Perlman/APPhotograph: Seth Perlman/APJessica Valenti2016-09-06T17:05:06ZAlmost everyone gets Russia wrong – apart from Obama | Trevor Timmhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/sep/08/almost-everyone-gets-russia-wrong-apart-from-obama
<p>Those itching for conflict like to portray Putin as a grandmaster. In reality, his country is weak and his strategy is one of desperation</p><p>These days it is en vogue in Washington DC to be itching for conflict with Russia. Politicians and pundits alike are outdoing each other for how they can describe the supposed threat Putin now poses to the west. To his credit, Barack Obama seems to be the only politician not playing into the cold war 2.0 hysteria.</p><p>In little noticed comments last week, Hillary Clinton suggested that <a href="https://twitter.com/mtracey/status/771418337096134656">the US should start preparing</a> “military” responses to cyber-attacks allegedly perpetrated by Russia on the DNC and voter registration files. And her campaign has also spent the last few weeks ratcheting up the fear-mongering that the Trump campaign is secretly a Russian plant of some sort.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/sep/08/almost-everyone-gets-russia-wrong-apart-from-obama">Continue reading...</a>RussiaUS foreign policyUS politicsThu, 08 Sep 2016 11:00:31 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/sep/08/almost-everyone-gets-russia-wrong-apart-from-obamaPhotograph: Alexei Druzhinin/TASSPhotograph: Alexei Druzhinin/TASSTrevor Timm2016-09-08T11:00:31ZA split supreme court means contraception is more likely to remain a right | Scott Lemieuxhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/23/supreme-court-split-contraception-healthcare-case-zubik-v-burwell
<p>Some religious employers have railed against including contraceptive coverage in health plans. Without Justice Scalia, though, they’re unlikely to prevail</p><p>On Wednesday, the US supreme court heard <a href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/argument_transcripts/14-1418_1bn2.pdf">oral arguments</a> in Zubik v Burwell. The case challenges the Affordable Care Act requirement that employers include contraceptive coverage in taxpayer-subsidized health plans, with potentially negative ramifications for women nationwide should the court rule against the government. </p><p>The arguments suggest, however, that the issue will remain unresolved by a shorthanded court likely to split 4-4, which may well be the best-case scenario under the circumstances.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/23/supreme-court-split-contraception-healthcare-case-zubik-v-burwell">Continue reading...</a>US supreme courtWed, 23 Mar 2016 20:16:31 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/23/supreme-court-split-contraception-healthcare-case-zubik-v-burwellPhotograph: Joshua Roberts/ReutersPhotograph: Joshua Roberts/ReutersScott Lemieux2016-03-23T20:16:31ZAll-day podcasts and brick-sized books. Or, why 2015 was the year the long form fought backhttps://www.theguardian.com/books/commentisfree/2016/jan/02/longer-novels-podcasts-appealing-gaboon-adder
<p>Digital-age culture was meant to be bite-sized. But novels are getting longer, and I have learned to enjoy Wilbur Smith</p><p>Shortly before Christmas, Wilbur Smith, the writer of airport novels, <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2015/dec/14/wilbur-smith-a-writers-memorable-quotes-you-may-want-to-forget">gave an interview</a> to a Sunday newspaper in which he spoke of his four wives in the following tender terms: “Two of them died on me, the first one hates me, and this one loves me, so I’ve covered the whole spectrum.” He no longer saw his children, he added: “They’ve got my sperm, that’s all … it’s sadder for them than it is for me, because they’re not getting any more money.” Perhaps the most charitable response was to observe that at least Smith was being consistent here: the real people in his life seemed as two-dimensional, judging from these descriptions, as the typical Smith hero, who is a rugged outdoorsman with a passion for hunting, hard liquor, and no-strings sex. (Oh, and for avoiding the <a href="http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02589009408729555#.VoQemWThByo">gaboon adder</a>, the deadly African snake Smith calls upon, with amusing frequency, when a character needs to die.) But my sneering’s a bit hypocritical, really. I only know about Smith’s cardboard-cutout characters because 2015 was the year I read two of his brick-sized novels, along with several similar vast works by Frederick Forsyth and Ken Follett: the kind of books, as one friend put it both succinctly and snobbily, that you find in self-catering holiday cottages. A further confession: mainly, I enjoyed them.</p><p>In publishing at large, it was a year of very long works: of Franzen and Knausgård and Marlon James, if you have some kind of problem with gaboon adders and prefer literary fiction instead. <a href="http://mentalfloss.com/article/72840/bestselling-books-are-getting-longer-study-finds">A survey in December</a> confirmed that novels in general are getting bigger: the average number of pages in a bestseller, it found, had grown by 25% since 1999. This is unexpected. Digital culture was always supposed to fragment our attention spans, eroding our powers of concentration with addictive interruptions and bite-sized stimuli – and it often does. But it’s also the case that e-readers make very long books much more practical: the 400-plus pages of Smith’s <a href="https://bookshop.theguardian.com/eye-of-the-tiger.html">Eye of the Tiger</a> (in which, by the way, a killer shark is destroyed by being induced to swallow a stick of gelignite hidden inside the body of a Moray eel) added no weight to my Kindle.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/commentisfree/2016/jan/02/longer-novels-podcasts-appealing-gaboon-adder">Continue reading...</a>BooksPodcastingUS elections 2016Wilbur SmithTechnologyFirst world warSat, 02 Jan 2016 08:00:05 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/books/commentisfree/2016/jan/02/longer-novels-podcasts-appealing-gaboon-adderPhotograph: PAPhotograph: PAOliver Burkeman2016-01-02T08:00:05Z